WorldJapan’s new defense white paper calls China its biggest strategic challenge

Japan’s Defense Ministry released its 2026 defense white paper on Aug. 4, identifying China as the country’s greatest strategic challenge. The document says Japan will continue to place the U.S.-Japan alliance at the center of its security policy. It also urges stronger defense cooperation with Australia, India and NATO-aligned countries through exercises, equipment sharing and industrial partnerships. The paper highlights new forms of warfare, including expanded battlefield use of artificial intelligence and drones, and says the military balance between China and Taiwan is shifting rapidly in China’s favor.