The Japanese Self-Defense Forces have been promoting operational integration with the U.S. military over the 10 years since the enactment of Japan¡¯s national security laws.

Friday marked the 10th anniversary of the laws, which allow Japan to exercise its right to collective self-defense and have helped the SDF expand its activities with like-minded countries.

Japan plans to continue to strengthen its defense capabilities, as the security environment surrounding Japan has deteriorated rapidly due to China¡¯s military buildup.