Japan debates getting a nuclear submarine – but Kishida’s ‘not so sure’
- Some opposition parties have called for Japan to ‘increase deterrence’ amid Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and increased Chinese military assertiveness
- The PM isn’t convinced getting a nuclear submarine would be a good idea. Others say just adding ‘deluxe equipment’ isn’t the way to boost the country’s defences
“I’m not so sure if making the leap to a nuclear submarine is a good idea,” Kishida said in an appearance on a Fuji TV programme with other party leaders. He cited the difficulty of using nuclear power for military purposes under Japan’s atomic energy law and the high running cost.
“We will see what needs to be prioritised to safeguard the people’s lives and their livelihoods,” he said.
Natsuo Yamaguchi, head of the LDP’s junior coalition partner Komeito, echoed Kishida’s view, calling the idea of a nuclear-powered submarine “unrealistic”.
Ichiro Matsui, leader of the Japan Innovation Party, and Yuichiro Tamaki, head of the Democratic Party for the People, called for acquisition of a nuclear-powered submarine to boost deterrence and reconnaissance capacity.
Japan “should have an advanced type [of submarine] to increase deterrence,” Matsui said, while Tamaki stressed the advantage of a nuclear submarine’s ability to stay underwater for months for enhanced surveillance and reconnaissance operations.