Japan explores ‘ownership’ of nuclear submarines as regional rivalries worsen

Analysts acknowledge there will inevitably be pushback from some sectors of Japan – the only nation to have suffered a nuclear attack – but say there is a growing recognition that regional rivalries are worsening and Japan needs to do more to guarantee its own security.

Quoting government sources, the Yomiuri newspaper reported on Wednesday that the expert panel set up to consider changes to the National Security Strategy and other key security documents would state that Japan was “considering ownership” of nuclear submarines.

This will permit initial research into developing a domestically built nuclear-powered submarine without a firm decision on acquiring a fleet. If public support is adequate, it added, the project could be given the green light to proceed.