Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 2:22:34-2:23:05

The JMSDF appears more conflict-ready than European fleets

Construction observed during the trip suggested that Japan was already preparing for conflict while European counterparts were still discussing preparations.

European NaviesJapan Maritime Self-Defense ForceNaval ProcurementNaval Readiness
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Question

How did the trip influence your view of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force?

Short answer

It reinforced the impression that the JMSDF was much more prepared for conflict than European counterparts, judging by what Japan was building and how it was building it.

Notes

The Japanese ships under construction and the way they were being built suggested serious preparation for conflict. European counterparts were characterized as still talking about preparations that Japan was already making. This was Clarke's assessment after the trip, based on visible construction choices and the seriousness they suggested about Japan's threat perception.