80 Years After WWII: China, Japan And Taiwan Expand Their Militaries For Peace? | When Titans Clash

Key Concepts

Taiwan contingency, PLA modernization, Japan's rearmament, US-Japan military alliance, China's military expansion, Nuclear proliferation, Deterrence, One China policy, Cross-strait relations, Civil defense, International security system, Anti-secession law, Peaceful reunification, Hard deterrence, Status quo, First island chain, Nuclear arms race.

China's Military Modernization and Expansion

Since 2012, President Xi Jinping has directed the People's Liberation Army (PLA) to modernize rapidly. The PLA is now the world's largest army, with over 2 million soldiers. China has developed a significant shipbuilding industry, possessing a naval fleet of over 340 warships, surpassing the United States Navy. China also produces more advanced fighter aircraft annually than the US. This military modernization is unprecedented in peacetime, raising concerns about its scale and advanced capabilities like hypersonic missiles and modern fighter jets, which rival or surpass US capabilities.

In February 2025, the PLA conducted live-fire naval drills in international waters off Australia and New Zealand, causing diplomatic unease due to insufficient notice. In June 2025, Japan reported that China deployed two aircraft carriers simultaneously to the Pacific near Japan's southern islands, with Chinese fighter jets making approximately 520 landings and takeoffs. This demonstrates China's willingness to project its naval capacities beyond its first island chain. China's increasing confrontation with the Philippines in the South China Sea has also been widely reported.

China aims to become a hegemonic power in Asia, seeking to dominate the region through its military buildup and willingness to use force, including gray zone tactics and hybrid warfare, to alter the status quo.

Perspectives on China's Military Activities

Some argue that China's military exercises in international waters are inevitable as the PLA grows stronger. While some Australian officials noted the short notice for the drills, they acknowledged their legitimacy in open seas. It's argued that China's navy needs to test uncharted waters as it becomes stronger.

A contrasting view suggests that the West's attitude towards China is a mix of uncertainty and fear, stemming from economic integration and the recognition that the world is no longer Western-dominated. Some fear China's rapid military buildup, but it's argued that since 1979, the Chinese military hasn't killed a single foreigner overseas.

Japan's Rearmament and the US-Japan Alliance

Japan is rearming, with military spending at an all-time high since the end of World War II. While the Japanese people desire peace, they believe deterrence requires strength. Japan is deepening its military partnership with the United States, though public opinion is divided.

American and Japanese troops conduct joint drills like Exercise Iron Fist, with the 2025 drills having the largest troop contingent since 2005. These drills are held in Kyushu and Okinawa, part of the Nansei Shoto chain, a potential front line in a Taiwan contingency.

In August 2022, China fired five ballistic missiles into waters around Yunaguni to protest US Speaker Nancy Pelosi's visit to Taiwan. In February 2025, China flew a reconnaissance and attack drone near the Nansei Islands, prompting scrambles by the Japanese Air Self-Defense Force.

Japan is increasing its defense spending, pledging 43 trillion yen (approximately $30 billion US) over 5 years to reach 2% of GDP. Military presence is accelerating across the Nansei island chain. Yunaguni Island, once a cattle ranch, now hosts radar sites and a military camp. These developments have divided opinions in the community, with some fearing provocation and others supporting deterrence.

Philosophical Differences and Public Opinion in Japan

There are fundamental philosophical differences in Okinawa regarding military buildup. Some believe any preparation for a crisis is escalatory, while others believe in peace through strength and preparedness. This division is amplified throughout the nation.

The Japanese people are becoming more aware of the importance of the self-defense forces and the Japan-US alliance due to events in the Taiwan Straits and the Russia-Ukraine war. The 2025 Japan Defense Ministry white paper states that China poses an unprecedented strategic challenge to Japan's security.

Despite significant trade relations (approximately $300 billion US annually), Japan recognizes China as both an economic engine and a source of risk. Japan is navigating a complex scenario, seeking a more resilient economic structure.

Taiwan Contingency and Cross-Strait Relations

There are no treaty obligations for Japan to protect Taiwan. However, Japan aims to deter a Taiwan contingency through cooperation with allies and partners.

The US-Japan military deal is viewed differently, with some celebrating it and others being unsure.

Taiwan has been stepping up civil defense drills, rehearsing for emergencies like an attack by China. In March 2025, President William Lai labeled China a foreign hostile force. China responded with PLA drills simulating precision strikes on Taiwan's infrastructure and practicing a blockade.

A blockade is seen as a viable option for China, as Taiwan is heavily dependent on imports (over 97% of its energy and over 70% of its food). The goal is to induce chaos, divisions, and distrust in Taiwanese society, leading to surrender.

PLA exercises around Taiwan have been increasing in scale and frequency, potentially dulling senses and masking the opening salvo of an invasion. The Taiwan contingency is viewed as a major flashpoint that could draw major nuclear superpowers into war.

It's public that Xi Jinping has ordered his military to be capable of invading Taiwan by 2027. The US does not recognize Taiwan as a country, but its geographic location and economic importance (producing over 90% of the world's most advanced chips) make it strategically significant.

Hard deterrence, partnerships with allies, and diplomacy are seen as key to maintaining peace over Taiwan. The US One China policy remains consistent, not supporting Taiwan independence.

Nuclear Proliferation and Global Security

Global leaders warn that pledges made regarding nuclear weapons are at risk of being rescinded. Concerns are rising about the potential use of nuclear weapons, particularly in the context of the Russia-Ukraine war.

Russia has warned the West about potential nuclear conflict if NATO sends troops to Ukraine. North Korea has conducted ICBM tests, stressing its nuclear forces are ready to fight. South Korea is seeing growing public support for a nuclear program.

China's nuclear program is growing faster than any other country, expanding by 100 new nukes per year since 2023, reaching 600 in 2025, making it the world's third-largest stockpile. The UK is planning to buy new fighter jets that can carry nuclear bombs.

There are over 12,200 nuclear weapons, with about 2,000 ready to be launched. Modern nuclear weapons are far more powerful than those used in World War II.

China is developing a strategic arsenal, potentially reaching parity with the US and Russia by 2035, creating a strategic triangle.

Some argue that China should increase its nuclear arsenal to deter the US from considering using nuclear weapons against it.

Conclusion

The video highlights the complex and evolving security landscape in Asia, marked by China's military modernization, Japan's rearmament, tensions over Taiwan, and the growing threat of nuclear proliferation. It emphasizes the need for deterrence, diplomacy, and international cooperation to maintain peace in the region. The video also underscores the philosophical differences and public opinion divides within countries like Japan and Taiwan regarding defense strategies and the role of military alliances. The potential for miscalculation and escalation remains a significant concern, requiring careful management of cross-strait relations and a commitment to de-escalation from all parties involved.