Core Viewpoint - Japan's new Prime Minister, Sanna Takashi, has made controversial statements regarding Taiwan, leading to widespread international criticism. The government is pushing for military expansion under the guise of "self-defense," particularly in the southwestern region, indicating a shift towards a "new militarism" in response to perceived threats in the Taiwan Strait [2]. Military Expansion and Strategy - Japan is significantly increasing its military presence in the southwestern islands, with plans to invest trillions of yen in military fortifications from 2016 to 2024, citing tensions in the region as justification [2]. - The deployment of the 03-type surface-to-air missile units on Yonaguni Island is progressing rapidly, as confirmed by Japan's Defense Minister, indicating a strategic military buildup [5]. - Yonaguni Island, located just 110 kilometers from Taiwan, is viewed as Japan's frontline military base in the event of a Taiwan crisis [7]. Military Capabilities and Developments - The 03-type medium-range air defense missile system being deployed on Yonaguni is a key component of Japan's military strategy, aimed at creating an integrated network for air defense, anti-ship operations, and electronic warfare across the Taiwan Strait [9]. - The expansion of the Self-Defense Forces' roles and the deployment of offensive weapon systems have become increasingly evident, with successful tests of an electromagnetic railgun on the Maritime Self-Defense Force's test ship [14]. Local Opposition and Concerns - There is strong local opposition to the military buildup on Yonaguni Island, with residents expressing concerns that the situation is escalating risks rather than ensuring safety, likening it to a path towards war [11][12]. Historical Context and Future Plans - Japan has shifted its defense focus to the southwest since 2010, establishing military bases and increasing troop presence in the region. By 2026, the deployment of the 03-type missile system on Yonaguni is expected to be completed, and the 15th Brigade stationed in Okinawa will be upgraded to a division by 2027, shifting its role from regional defense to active island defense [15].

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses Japan's recent military expansion and provocative statements regarding Taiwan, indicating a shift towards a "new militarism" under the leadership of Prime Minister Sanna Takashi [3]. Military Expansion - Japan has been significantly increasing its military capabilities in the southwestern region, spending trillions of yen on military fortifications from 2016 to 2024, citing tensions in the southwestern direction as justification [3]. - The Japanese government is advancing its military deployment plans, including the installation of the Type 03 medium-range air defense missile system on Yonaguni Island, which is strategically located just 110 kilometers from Taiwan [3]. Strategic Military Positioning - Yonaguni Island is viewed as Japan's first line of defense in the event of a conflict involving Taiwan, and the deployment of the Type 03 missile system is a key component of Japan's strategy to create an integrated network for air defense, anti-ship operations, and electronic warfare covering the Taiwan Strait [3].