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...
