Japan Has Right - but Not Capability - to Strike if Attack Imminent, Defense Chief Says

AP ^ | 4/5/03 | Audrey McAvoy

[Pro-Bush]

Japan currently has 27 Patriot anti-missile batteries deployed around the country, but they are only capable of shooting down missiles with a shorter range and slower speed than ballistic missiles.

Ishiba said that although Japan is strictly limited by its post World War II constitution from using its military for offensive purposes, it is not barred from defending itself.

"Japan's Self-Defense Law allows for Japan to mobilize forces when facing an urgent and unjust attack," he said. "Japan may also mobilize forces when there is a threat of attack."

But until it significantly upgrades its defenses, he admitted, any realistic response to an imminent attack would likely have to be left to the 50,000 U.S. troops stationed in this country.

"Japan does not have the ability to attack a foreign enemy base," he said. "Japan entrusts the might of the United States to do that."

[Pro-Bush]

Japan depends on the USA for protection. As a nation, the Bush administration should and will make it very clear that America will defend Japan if attacked.

[ffusco]

The B-52's re-deployed recently made that crystal clear.

[cyborg]

I don't believe for a second that North Korea will even spit in Japan's direction. They know that Dubya will vaporize them if they fire a nuke. Who is laughing at Ronald Regan's StarWars idea now? hmm.....

[BnBlFlag]

They need to upgrade their large military to be able to project power ASAP.

[Pro-Bush]

The B-52's re-deployed recently made that crystal clear.

I heard about the B-2's, but didn't hear about B-52's...Thanks for the update!

[ffusco]

Have you seen the 747 with a freakin' laser canon?

In 25 years we will be controlling the weather.