How would a resurgent Russian navy change Japanese politics?

Would a resurgent Imperial Russian Navy strengthen Japan's naval faction and alter the threat to American and Dutch possessions?

Yes; Russia would reinforce the navy's political case and could redirect Japanese strategy enough to improve cooperation with the United States.

The audience asks whether a rebuilt Russian navy would add political weight to Japan's naval faction and increase threats to the Philippines and Dutch possessions. Russian sea power would change Japan's internal strategic debate. Russia was the established regional rival, while the United States was a newer and less immediate opponent. A stronger Russian fleet could therefore justify naval spending without directing all Japanese planning against America. Shared concern about Russia might even create a better foundation for U.S.-Japanese friendship than existed historically.