Should Japan come under a missile attack, if the only way it can block this is by striking the aggressor's missile bases, then doing so is within the scope of Japan's legitimate self-defense. We should repeatedly stress this point whenever the opportunity arises, especially toward North Korea. Of course, merely delivering this message is not enough. We must also hone our ability to exercise the right of self-defense should the need actually arise. For instance, approval must be granted for the installation of extra fuel tanks on F-15 fighters to extend their flying time.
Installation is a technically easy task that can be completed promptly once the decision is reached.
If this is done, there will be no great rush to introduce air tankers. This is an issue that should be addressed in the Diet as soon as possible. Based on the above efforts, a strong appeal should be made once again to reaffirm confidence in the Japan-U.S. alliance and strengthen it further. It is of the utmost urgency in this connection for Japan to enact the necessary legislation to implement the new Guidelines for Japan-U.S. Defense Cooperation. In addition, the advancement of Japan-U.S. joint technical research on ballistic missile defense is highly significant.