In line with an increasing variety of threats, changes in the security environment, especially with increased international interdependence, the role of the Self-Defense Force has expanded each year. Furthermore, the expectations of the nation regarding the activities of the Self-Defense Force have also increased in recent years.
Thus, for a swifter and more effective response as the Self-Defense Force, as well as to strengthen the crisis management system of the government, enhancing the integrated operation system has been put into effect.
(The enhancement of the integrated operation system has been approved by a Cabinet meeting and is clearly stated in "Regarding Maintenance of Ballistic Missiles", the "National Defense Program Outline", and the "Midterm Defense Buildup Program"). As a result, the Defense Agency Act and Self-Defense Force Law were revised in July 2005, and the "Joint Staff Administrative Division" which oversees operation of the SDF, was newly established in March 2006.