Japan Declines Plans for Nuclear-Powered Submarines

Japan has announced that it has no intention of acquiring nuclear-powered submarines, despite increasing regional security concerns.

Kono, currently serving as Minister of Digital Affairs, argued that nuclear-powered submarines, which can remain submerged for extended periods, are essential for national defense.

In response, Japan's Minister of Government Affairs, Yoshimasa Hayashi, reiterated that Japan adheres to its existing interpretation of nuclear energy laws, which strictly limit its use to peaceful purposes.

Japan, committed to its post-World War II pacifist constitution, maintains its policy of not possessing, producing or allowing the introduction of nuclear weapons on its territory.

Kono's proposal surfaced as part of his political platform ahead of the LDP leadership election scheduled for September 27.

He emphasized the need for a debate on whether Japan’s current defense capabilities are sufficient in light of growing regional tensions.

Kono questioned if Japan should deploy nuclear-powered submarines through potential cooperation with AUKUS, a trilateral security pact involving Australia, the United States, and the United Kingdom.

The goal of such cooperation would be to deter foreign passage through the East China Sea into the Pacific Ocean.

Australia, under the AUKUS partnership, plans to build a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines to ensure stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

While Japan does not intend to join AUKUS formally, it is exploring the possibility of collaborating on advanced technology projects with the alliance.