April 26, 2026

In another move that shows the revival of Japanese militarism, the Japanese government reportedly is moving closer toward changing the rank titles of Self-Defense Force (SDF) officers to resemble those of the military, which will stir concern from regional countries.

According to the Yomiuri Shimbun on Saturday, the Japanese government plans to submit a revised Self-Defense Forces Act to the Diet within this year, focusing on altering the rank titles of SDF officers. This is the first change to SDF rank titles since its establishment in 1954. The Japanese government cited the need for international standardization.

The existing SDF rank system comprises 16 gradations spanning from the highest flag officer positions down to entry-level enlisted personnel, according to globalsecurity.org.

Read more:

https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202604/1359785.shtml