Constitution and Shield: Dilemmas, Obstacles and Choices on Japan's Path to Naval Ballistic Missiles Defense

Abstract

The spread of ballistic missile technology in Northeast Asia over the past few years has underscored the serious threat that ballistic missiles pose to Japan’s security. While Japanese constitutional limitations preclude the exercise of coercive diplomacy, Japanese policymakers are actively exploring the possible deployment of an anti-ballistic missile defense shield as a means to counter the missile threat. Development of a shield, however, remains at an early stage, and budgetary, strategic and constitutional concerns are substantial. This article recommends that, having taken the decision to move ahead with prototype testing, Japanese policymakers now need to transition from the research phase of missile defense to the development and acquisition phases. However, Japan must first make difficult decisions about amending, or at least reinterpreting, its constitution.