Japan explores ‘ownership’ of nuclear submarines as regional rivalries worsen
Por Julian Ryall — South China Morning Post – News feed
Advertisement Japan This Week in Asia Politics Japan explores ‘ownership’ of nuclear submarines as regional rivalries worsen
Proposed changes could allow research into developing a domestically built nuclear-powered submarine without a firm decision on acquiring a fleet
3 -MIN READ 3 -MIN 1 Listen
Julian Ryall in Tokyo Published: 8:00am, 8 Oct 2026 Updated: 8:06am, 8 Oct 2026 Japan is expected to float the idea of acquiring a fleet of nuclear-powered submarines in revised security documents to be released later this year, with analysts suggesting that Tokyo’s initial aim is to promote discussion of the issue and overcome the public’s concerns.
Analysts acknowledge there will inevitably be pushback from some sectors of Japan – the only nation to have suffered a nuclear attack – but say there is a growing recognition that regional rivalries are worsening and Japan needs to do more to guarantee its own security.
Quoting government sources, the Yomiuri newspaper reported on Wednesday that the expert panel set up to consider changes to the National Security Strategy and other key security documents would state that Japan was “considering ownership” of nuclear submarines.
This will permit initial research into developing a domestically built nuclear-powered submarine without a firm decision on acquiring a fleet. If public support is adequate, it added, the project could be given the green light to proceed.
Select Voice Select Speed 0.8x 0.9x 1.0x 1.1x 1.2x 1.5x 1.75x 00:00 00:00 1x AI-generated voice
