More Robust Military Urged, With Less Reliance On U.S.

Japan needs to strengthen its military and lessen its dependence on the United States, says a draft report prepared by an advisory panel to Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan, reports the Asahi Shimbun.

The report disagrees with the assumption that Japan needs only a minimal defense capability, and calls for the redeployment of Self-Defense Forces personnel within Japan to meet the country's requirements.

The draft also outlines the potential threats posed by China and North...