Japan's military rebrands for space defence in historic shift

Japan’s parliament has approved laws to rename the Air Self-Defence Force as the 'Air and Space Self-Defence Force'. The change will take effect in fiscal 2026, marking a significant shift in the country’s military structure. A new unit, the 'Space Operations Group', will also be created to focus on space-based defence.

The legislation passed on Friday paves the way for Japan to treat outer space as an operational domain. This move aligns with the US Space Force model and expands Japan’s military capabilities beyond traditional air defence. The country plans to launch satellites and enhance its space surveillance systems to improve situational awareness.

The reorganisation has drawn criticism from political figures. Japanese Communist Party Chairperson Tomoko Tamura argued that it accelerates an arms race in space and violates the spirit of Japan’s pacifist constitution. She warned that such steps could undermine regional stability.

Japan’s new space-focused force may also collaborate with the US Space Force in joint combat operations. This partnership could affect the peaceful use of space resources by other nations. Additionally, the government may increase the number of defence ministers this summer to better manage crises and strengthen political defence ties.

The establishment of the Air and Space Self-Defence Force reflects Japan’s broader military ambitions. It signals a push to support long-range strikes, secure communications, and engage in space-based operations. The changes could reshape the security landscape in the Asia-Pacific and impact global space governance.