Page 208 - Trilateral Korea Japan U.S. Cooperation

be used, what role the JSDF would play in a war situation in
which nuclear weapons would be used, and how to formulate
and conduct joint operational planning leading up to the
use of nuclear weapons. By clarifying the roles of Japan and
the United States, it would be possible to ensure joint action
between the U.S. military and the JSDF with a high degree of
confidence.

Japan faces a challenge in addressing the sustained high level
of nuclear risks in the region, particularly concerning North
Korea’s advancing nuclear capabilities and China’s growing
military assertiveness. Japan should consider how to improve
the situation where nuclear risks remain high, that is, how
to engage China and North Korea in strategic dialogue and,
eventually, in dialogue on arms control and disarmament. This
engagement would aim to address mutual security concerns,
build trust, and create a foundation for more stable and
sustainable regional security relationships.

208 Section III : South Korea-Japan-U.S. Cooperation: How to Deter Pyongyang and Dissuade Beijing