How a post-Tojo Japan might rebuild deterrence

A civil conflict would remain possible after Tojo's removal, though rival factions would probably turn against him. A replacement government seeking time to reorganize might emphasize deterrence by publicly revealing the Yamato class and its capabilities, potentially provoking new construction programs abroad. A pause before the next crisis could also support a renewed effort to improve Japanese infrastructure. Mitsumasa Yonai's relationships in Britain and the United States would make him unusually well placed to seek a stabilizing agreement, even if the chance of durable peace remained small. Hirohito would not need to issue a broadcast order: in the language of the imperial court, a carefully phrased question about Tojo's fitness could be enough for senior intermediaries to act.