The Evolution of Japan’s Space and Security Policies

This article assesses the impact of two factors on the development of Japan’s space and security programs: interpretation of Article 9 of the revised Meiji Constitution and the influence of the United States. Following the Second World War, Japan embraced a minimalist security policy, directing post war resources to economical development while using the U.S. to ensure security. Japan initially employed Article 9 to avoid becoming entrapped in U.S. military operations; however, increasing challenges in the regional security environment with North Korea and China’s ascendancy changed Japan’s perception and interpretation of self-defense. Japan ushered in successive institutional and policy alterations in accord with the development of their space and security capabilities and integration with the U.S. security network. Since 2008 Japan has passed legislation that shares a broad conception of space security. These legal doctrines reflect Japan’s commitment to actively engage in developing greater space and security competences. Reinterpreting the use of outer space for “peaceful” purposes from exclusively non-military to passive military uses is also in accord with changes in Japan’s identity from a “peace” state to a “normal” international state

Constitution · International security · Legislation · National security · Security studies · Japanese History and Culture · Space exploration and regulation · Space Science and Extraterrestrial Life