(Provisional translation by an external company for reference purpose only)
At today’s Cabinet meeting, I presented an explanation of “Defense of Japan 2025,” which was then distributed. This year’s edition of “Defense of Japan” was compiled with a focus on the events of FY2024, aimed at facilitating an easier understanding of the security environment surrounding Japan, and of the efforts by the Ministry of Defense (MOD) and Self-Defense Forces (SDF) to fundamentally reinforce Japan’s defense capabilities based on the three strategic documents. Notably, it includes feature articles that comprehensively explain about the establishment of the JSDF Joint Operations Command in March of this year, as well as about improving the treatment and working environments, and establishing new lifetime career plans of SDF personnel under the leadership of Prime Minister Ishiba. We asked artist Ms. YOSHIFUKU Honoka to create the cover for this year’s “Defense of Japan.” The cover has a fresh, pop design like never before, with the hope that it will entice young people and the general public who may have never picked up the “Defense of Japan” to take a look at it. Furthermore, with a view to deepening understanding of the MOD/SDF among elementary, junior high, and high school students who are the leaders of the future, we have also published “Complete Understanding! Japan’s Defense” at the same time as an introduction to the defense of Japan. We hope that these publications will help further understanding among the people about Japan’s defense. I encourage everyone to please take a look.