Taro Yamato: Thank you for the opportunity to speak with The Fletcher Security Review. As a proud Fletcher alumnus, I’m honored to share my thoughts with those preparing to lead on the global stage.

The Ministry of Defense, under its mission to secure Japan’s peace and independence as well as to ensure the security of the nation, is entrusted with a wide range of responsibilities. These include the planning of defense policy, the operation of the Self-Defense Forces (SDF), and the promotion of international security cooperation. My duties involve leading the development of defense policies that respond to changes in the international security environment and emerging threats, as well as advancing the maintenance and strengthening of defense capabilities necessary to protect Japan’s sovereignty, peace, and the lives and daily life of its people. In addition, I am engaged in organizational management, personnel development, and equipment improvement to ensure that the SDF can smoothly and effectively carry out diverse missions both domestically and internationally.

Furthermore, the Ministry promotes bilateral and multilateral security cooperation centered on the Japan-U.S. Alliance, while contributing to regional and global peace and stability. We are working to strengthen partnerships with regional actors and to advance cooperation toward the realization of a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific.” In addition, we strive to clearly communicate the objectives and context of defense policy to the public and the international community, ensuring transparency in policy implementation and fostering understanding and trust.