They are a “self defense” force in name only. They have quietly built carriers, bought aerial refuelers and built up their forces. They have an offensive capability on par with other nations that are not restricted. They also have a decent fleet of diesel subs.
Check out their “destroyers”, they are actually USN crusiser size.
USN Ticonderoga Class Guided Missile cruiser,full load 9600 tons
JMSDF Kongo Class “Destroyer”, full load 9500 tons
Both have basically the same equipment as they use US weapons systems.
Last time I checked the Japanese can project force 1000 miles from the homeland. That aint too shabby.
I didn’t know that. They must be worried about China.