Self-Defenses Forces to align rank names with international standards and facilitate military cooperation

 Direct translation

Major Japan shift! Self-Defense Forces to revert to Japanese Military? Beijing is Going Crazy

Commentator : Akio Yaita / Editor: Fang Xun / Source: X / https://www.aboluowang.com/2025/1114/2305254.html

The Japanese government has recently begun discussing a far-reaching reform—reverting the ranks of the Self-Defense Forces to the names used in the pre-war Japanese military. This move, seemingly a mere word change, actually represents a significant shift in Japan's national identity and national consciousness. Since its defeat in World War II 80 years ago, Japan has deliberately avoided using the word "military" in an effort to shed the shadow of militarism. Consequently, the ranks of the Self-Defense Forces differ from those of other militaries worldwide, carrying an ambiguity of being "an army that is not an army."

This ambiguous positioning has made it difficult for Japan to be seen as a nation with normal defense capabilities on the international stage, and has also led to a lack of pride among many Self-Defense Force officers, resulting in a long-standing difficulty in recruiting more qualified personnel.

According to a report in the Sankei Shimbun, the Japanese government is internally considering revising the Self-Defense Forces Law to align rank names with international standards. For example, the current "Colonel" will be restored to "Colonel," the "Lieutenant" will be changed to "Captain," and the Chief of Staff will be called "General." These changes, though seemingly minor, symbolize Japan's attempt to shed the special shackles of its post-war defeat and embark on the path to becoming a "normal country." This is not merely a linguistic correction, but a spiritual and institutional rebirth.

It is noteworthy that this discussion is one of the most symbolic national policy directions since Sanae Takaichi became Prime Minister. Since taking office, Prime Minister Takaichi has explicitly advocated that Japan should demonstrate its due autonomy and responsibility in defense and diplomacy. She emphasized that Japan should not forever view itself as a "defeated nation," but should bravely shoulder its obligations while maintaining peace.

Within the Self-Defense Forces, many active-duty officers welcome this reform. They believe that using the same rank titles as other countries will not only boost morale but also facilitate smoother international military cooperation. In the past, foreign militaries often felt confused by Japan's unique class system; this adjustment will help Japan play a clearer role in multilateral defense cooperation.

Of course, this reform is bound to provoke a backlash from China and South Korea. Beijing is expected to criticize this as a "revival of militarism" and exert pressure on Japan based on historical reasons. However, the Takaichi Cabinet clearly has no intention of being swayed by these criticisms. Japan faces the challenges of deteriorating regional security and global tensions. Strengthening its defense capabilities and restoring military confidence is not about provoking conflict, but about more responsibly maintaining peace.

Since taking office, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has been leading Japan out of its long post-war period of self-imposed limitations. Restoring traditional military ranks is not about nostalgia, but about regaining dignity; not about returning to the past, but about moving forward. For Japan, this is an important step towards becoming a "normal country." For Asia, this may also mark the beginning of a new era for a more confident and responsible Japan.