The Japanese government has announced new emergency guidelines that clarify when the coast guard could be brought under command of the defense minister.
Examples include an order for defense mobilization in the event of an armed attack on Japan.
The measure could also be taken if the conventional relationship between the Japan Coast Guard and Self-Defense Forces proves insufficient.
A law dating back to 1948 states that the coast guard cannot carry out military functions. It was enacted to provide clear distinction from the SDF.
Government officials say the measure would be subject to Cabinet approval.
They say the coast guard would act as a police force under command of the ministry. And they insist that would not equate to a quasi-militarization.
Former Japan Coast Guard chief Okushima Takahiro says the guidelines reflect the increasingly severe security situation around Japan.
Examples include an order for defense mobilization in the event of an armed attack on Japan.
The measure could also be taken if the conventional relationship between the Japan Coast Guard and Self-Defense Forces proves insufficient.
A law dating back to 1948 states that the coast guard cannot carry out military functions. It was enacted to provide clear distinction from the SDF.
Government officials say the measure would be subject to Cabinet approval.
They say the coast guard would act as a police force under command of the ministry. And they insist that would not equate to a quasi-militarization.
Former Japan Coast Guard chief Okushima Takahiro says the guidelines reflect the increasingly severe security situation around Japan.
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Summary
Japanese government unveiled new emergency guidelines, clarifying when the Coast Guard could come under Defense Minister's command. Situations include defense mobilization in case of armed attack on Japan and insufficient cooperation with Self-Defense Forces. Despite concerns about
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ID: 9e949b24-25de-4680-978d-56b4030a3acc
Category ID: nhk
URL: https://www3.nhk.or.jp/nhkworld/en/news/20230429_02/
Date: April 29, 2023
Created: 2023/04/29 08:28
Updated: 2025/12/09 04:30
Last Read: 2023/04/29 22:05