The JS Izumo will have its first deployment alongside a U.S. Navy vessel outside of exercises.

Japanese lawmakers in the ruling coalition are debating the merits of allowing greater weapons use by the Japanese military.

U.S. and Japanese officials will release a report Wednesday outlining new guidelines for bilateral defense cooperation.

Despite an absence of legislation, Abe will be making two key security moves this fall.

The Japanese economy continues to lose momentum.

Abe is focusing on the economy this Diet session in order to lay the groundwork for next spring.

Public concern shows Abe changing tone before passing new legislation this fall.

A turn toward military normalization threatens Japan position as a peaceful international leader.

Larger trade, investment in R&D, and military training point toward a shrinking timeframe for normalization.

A Cabinet of new ministers could make holding course difficult on Abe’s flagship policies.

While maintaining course on policy, Abe is attempting to retain power and possibly deflect public dissatisfaction.

Japan’s rising public debt has implications that go beyond its economy.

Polls indicate dissatisfaction with Abe’s main policies, but lack of opposition probably means no change.

Three international reports highlight concerns about Japan’s past and social equality.

There are good reasons to think that the UN Charter allows Japan and the US to come to Taiwan’s defense.

The UN Charter prohibits any country from coming to Taiwan’s defense if China invades the island.