Japan will double down on defence build-up

Significance China and Russia tested Japan’s responses to military provocations ahead of Ishiba’s inauguration as Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) president, and the new premier’s cabinet includes many fellow defence experts. His remilitarisation plans are in focus ahead of a snap election on October 27 and next month’s US presidential election. Impacts Tokyo may need to impose unpopular tax hikes to fund defence spending increases, denting Ishiba’s popularity. Opposition parties are likely to seize on any tax hikes to criticise the incumbent administration. Jet fighter cooperation with the United Kingdom could be undermined by the Labour government’s defence review.