In light of escalating military activities by China in the Pacific, Japan's Ministry of Defense has solidified its plan to enhance the operational capabilities of the Iwo Jima airbase, located in the Ogasawara Islands. Previously, defense efforts have concentrated on the southwestern regions like Okinawa; however, there are concerns about defensive gaps on the Pacific side. The ministry aims to strengthen these defenses, particularly given the strategic importance of Iwo Jima, despite challenges related to its volcanic landscape. The discussion around improving its functionality is moving forward more rapidly, emphasizing the current geopolitical climate.

Iwo Jima is home to approximately 250 Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force personnel and 100 Japan Air Self-Defense Force members. The island also features a runway of about 2,650 meters, utilized by U.S. military aircraft for training. However, there is a notable absence of permanent stationing of fighter jets belonging to Japan's Self-Defense Forces. The Ministry of Defense plans to initiate surveys for port enhancements and runway improvements in the coming fiscal year, which includes establishing facilities to accommodate large vessels and potentially stationing fighter jets on Iwo Jima to ensure rapid response capabilities to any incursions by Chinese military aircraft.

The backdrop to these developments is the looming presence of the Chinese military, which is expected to aggressively pursue territorial expansion in the Pacific. As the upcoming National People's Congress is set to finalize a new five-year plan, there is a palpable sense of urgency within Japan's defense apparatus. The Japanese government understands the implications of China's military-civilian fusion policy and its relevance to economic, scientific, and diplomatic efforts, highlighting the need for Japan to bolster its defensive posture in the face of potential threats.