Kyodo: Japan will allow to put into service nuclear submarines by the end of the year

The possibility of acquiring nuclear-powered submarines can be considered in key security documents of Japan until the end of 2026. Lawmakers from the ruling coalition insist on this, but the issue "remains delicate," Kyodo reported, citing sources.

The idea originated in the administration of Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi because of the ongoing work to revise the three key documents underlying the country's defense and security policy. There are no nuclear submarines in service with the Japanese army.

According to Kyodo sources, the mention of nuclear submarines in the documents will not mean that the authorities have already decided to purchase them and put them into service. “If we say that issues related to nuclear submarines will be considered, it will make it easier to have more specific discussions regardless of whether such vessels are purchased,” one government source said.

Japan's legislation restricts the use of nuclear energy, and past administrations have argued that it cannot be used to power self-defense force combat submarines. The country has long adhered to three non-nuclear principles prohibiting the possession, production and introduction of nuclear weapons on its territory.

Ernest Philippowski