Japan is taking a closer look at unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP) spotted in its skies. The investigation, driven by lawmakers, aims to find out if these sightings present any threat to the country’s security.
There’s a suspicion that the unexplained objects might be aircraft from China, penetrating Japanese airspace.
Following in the footsteps of the United States, Japan has decided to take a government-level approach to these mysterious sightings.
Unlike those who might be hoping for extraterrestrial explanations, the primary concern of this initiative is identifying and addressing potential earthly dangers.
A Major Initiative
In 2017, Japanese F-15J pilots swiftly responded to an air defense drill, showcasing their readiness.
Today, a different form of vigilance is emerging among approximately 80 lawmakers from the Japanese Diet. This group includes prominent figures like the parliamentary affairs leader of the Liberal Democratic Party and three former defense ministers.
Their focus? Unidentified Aerial Phenomena (UAP).
The group argues that the Japanese government has not paid enough attention to UAP sightings, which have recently increased around the country.
They opt to use the term “unidentified anomalous phenomena” in their name, aligning with the terminology used by the U.S. Department of Defense. This decision aims to distance their efforts from the UFO stigma associated with flying saucers and extraterrestrial beings.
Despite their significant political weight, the group currently operates independently of direct government support from bodies such as Japan’s Ministry of Defense or the Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency (JAXA).
However, their legislative power allows them to allocate funding to these agencies for further UAP research and investigations.
Their collective effort marks a proactive stance in understanding and addressing the potential concerns posed by UAP sightings, pushing for a structured and government-backed approach to study these mysterious occurrences.
A New Threat?
Recent events have pushed Japan to reevaluate their approach to unidentified aerial phenomena (UAP).
Traditionally, sightings of mysterious flying objects were largely ignored. However, several high-profile encounters reported by military personnel in the United States have compelled Japan to take a second look.
Unsettling Incidents
Reports of UAPs often include bizarre flight characteristics. Navy personnel have observed aircraft capable of speeds up to 7,200 miles an hour, and with an ability to change altitude swiftly—from 20,000 to 80,000 feet within moments.
Such maneuvers would give any nation holding this technology an aerial edge, posing a significant threat.
Monitoring Foreign Adversaries
The heightened scrutiny is not unfounded. There is a growing concern that foreign adversaries, primarily China and Russia, might be behind these sightings.
The fear is that they have achieved some breakthrough, leading to aircraft with capabilities unknown to current military technology.
Chinese Spy Balloons and Drones
In February 2023, a Chinese spy balloon hovering over Charlotte, North Carolina, grabbed public attention before it was shot down.
Later, similar balloons were suspected in Japan, with incidents recorded in 2019, 2020, and 2021. These objects breached Japanese airspace, a clear violation of international law.
Potential Espionage
The risk of espionage looms large. A foreign drone or balloon could gather intelligence on Japanese targets while eyewitnesses are dismissed for reporting “alien crafts”.
This espionage can target political, military, or economic sectors, exploiting the disbelief surrounding UAPs.
Reporting Protocols and Defense
In response, Japan’s Ministry of Defense ordered the Self Defense Forces to establish a protocol for reporting UAPs in 2020.
This step was bolstered after the revelation that some objects observed were likely of Chinese origin. Following the 2023 balloon incident, the Japanese government announced that any crafts breaching their airspace could be met with force, including the use of air-to-air missiles.
Implications for Security
This reevaluation signifies a broader implication for national and international security.
The increasing use of unmanned aerial vehicles by foreign powers for spying or other purposes cannot be overlooked.
Japan’s consideration of UAPs as serious threats shows a commitment to securing its airspace and national security.
Legislative Actions
Japanese lawmakers, including former defense ministers, have formed groups to scrutinize these aerial phenomena.
The aim is to treat sightings with the gravity they deserve, given their potential to be sophisticated surveillance tools rather than extraterrestrial visitors.
Public and Military Response
The new policies reflect a shift in both public and military response.
Public awareness is crucial to prevent ridicule and assure credible sightings aren’t ignored. Meanwhile, military protocols ensure prompt and appropriate action against any potential threats entering Japanese skies.
Japan vs. the Flying Saucers
Japan’s robust defense setup plays a crucial role in maintaining the security of its vast island territory. With a significant reliance on air and sea routes for trade and the import of essential goods like food and energy, Japan must keep these routes open and secure.
The partnership with the United States bolsters this effort, adding a layer of protection against regional threats from China, Russia, and North Korea.
Japan is known for its advanced military technology:
- 147 F-35 Lightning II fighter jets, forming the second largest fleet outside the U.S.
- The SM-3 exoatmospheric ballistic missile interceptor, a joint venture with the U.S., highly effective against enemy missile warheads.
- The non-nuclear powered Taigei class submarines, considered the world’s most advanced in their category.
Additionally, Japan plans to double its defense budget by 2027 to counter known threats, like North Korea’s ballistic missiles and China’s advanced fighter jets.
These investments are aimed at addressing specific, tangible dangers that threaten national security.
Despite these advancements, gaps remain in Japan’s security.
Reports of unidentified flying objects (UFOs) have caught the attention of officials, raising concerns about potential vulnerabilities.
The country’s move to form a group dedicated to investigating “unidentified aerial phenomena” (UAPs) signifies a serious approach to these unknowns.
Japanese legislators argue that UAPs might not just be the stuff of science fiction. They could indeed be surveillance tools or weapons from rival nations. Ignoring such reports might leave Japan exposed to unforeseen dangers.
Former Defense Minister Hamada, now leading a UAP study group, highlighted this issue, stating that ignoring unknown threats can compromise national security.
Although Japan has only recently ramped up its efforts to study UAPs, it is following the footsteps of the United States, where a similar initiative— the All-Domain Anomaly Resolution Office (AARO)—is already operational.
Both countries are less interested in extraterrestrial theories and more focused on potential threats from adversaries like China.
The context of UAPs in Japan isn’t new.
From 2019 to 2021, balloons, suspected of being hostile surveillance instruments, overflew the country, raising eyebrows and alarms. These incidents accentuated the need for a more systematic approach to identify and counter such unexplained aerial activity.
Kyle Mizokami, a seasoned defense and security writer, underscores the importance of investigating these aerial phenomena. His contributions to Popular Mechanics and other notable publications reflect his deep understanding of defense issues. His perspectives emphasize that advances in military technology and vigilance in investigating potential threats are both crucial for national security.
The takeaway here is clear: Japan’s proactive measures, driven by advanced military capabilities and strategic alliances, aim to secure its skies against any form of intrusion, whether from known adversaries or unexplained aerial phenomena.
Featured Image: Toshi Aoki
Shared Under: Creative Commons Attribution-Share Alike 3.0 Unported license.
