Tokyo’s New Power‑Play: A Global Army Meetup
Last week in the heart of Japan’s capital, the world’s top military commanders—from the United States, South Korea, and the Philippines to fourteen other countries—gathered for the Pacific Amphibious Leaders Symposium (PALS). The goal? To shuffle up a coalition that can keep China in check.
Why Tokyo? Why Now?
Launched by the U.S. in 2015 right in the middle of the Pacific, PALS was a clear signal that Washington was shifting gears: move from a “friend‑China” approach to a hard‑line stance that threatens to corner Beijing. A fresh U.S. focus on Asia and a drive to deepen ties with like‑minded partners have taken center stage.
At the close of the four‑day event, Lt. Gen. Steven Rudder, the boss of US Marine Corps Forces Pacific, summed it up: “No nation can do it all alone. Everyone has a piece to offer.”
Japan Steps Up the Game
Tokyo hosted the conference for the first time, signalling its intent to take the reins of regional security. With a wary eye on China, North Korea and Russia, Japan has been pointing out that its neighbours are flouting international rules. Since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Japan has grown increasingly anxious that Beijing might use force to bring Taiwan under its control.
“PALS 2022 sends a clear message: we do not allow unilateral changes to the status quo by force,” said General Yoshihide Yoshida, head of Japan’s Ground Self‑Defence Force, alongside Rudder.
China’s Stance
China insists that its recent military drills around Taiwan—viewing the island as part of its territory—are defensive moves to safeguard sovereignty.
In Singapore, at the Shangri‑La Dialogue, Japanese Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi likened Japan to a “frontline” surrounded by rogue, nuclear‑armed actors, and warned of the ominous threat “outside the red line.”
Hands‑On Look at the Gear
- About 70 PALS participants toured a naval base and an army camp near Tokyo, checking out hovercraft, Osprey aircraft and other state‑of‑the‑art military gear.
- US forces showcased a High Mobility Rocket System (HIMARS) that sat alongside the ones the Pentagon has sent to Ukraine.
- Visitants from Southeast Asia—Thailand, Indonesia—discussed China’s territorial claims that challenge the South China Sea’s status quo.
- Britain, France, Fiji, and the Maldives also sent their representatives, reflecting a global push for stronger maritime patrols.
Summing It Up
The mid‑June gathering might just be the start of a fresh coalition that keeps key continental powers on a tight leash. With Tokyo taking the lead, the world has a new team ready to keep the coastlines secure—without letting any single nation hog the spotlight.
