In this book, Daniel Kliman argues that the years following September 11, 2001, have marked a turning point in Japan's defense strategy. Utilizing poll data from Japanese newspapers as well as extensive interview material, Kliman chronicles the erosion of normative and legal restraints on Tokyo's security policy. In particular, he notes that both Japanese elites and the general public increasingly view national security from a realpolitik perspective. Japan's more realpolitik orientation has coincided with a series of precedent-breaking defense initiatives. Tokyo deployed the Maritime Self-Defense Force to the Indian Ocean, decided to introduce missile defense, and contributed troops to Iraq's post-conflict reconstruction.=

"Published with the Center for Strategic and International Studies, Washington, D.C."

Japan's strategic evolution -- What if: scenarios of strategic change -- Elite and public opinion: creeping realism -- Japan and September 11 -- Under North Korea's shadow: Japan and missile defense -- Japan, the Iraq war, and postconflict reconstruction -- Transitional realism -- Epilogue.