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Ryo Hinata-Yamaguchi examines how AI is shaping Japan’s defence planning and operational risk management, focusing on the strategic operationalisation within the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) and its broader regional implications. While AI serves as an essential enabler of defence readiness, it must not become its primary driver. A purely technology-centric approach—lacking integration with structural, procedural, and infrastructural reforms—risks creating a dangerous disconnect in military capabilities. Furthermore, the proliferation of AI-enabled systems across Asia-Pacific countries could exacerbate existing regional tensions. Given that full transparency is unlikely in such sensitive domains, the path forward requires a collaborative framework among regional stakeholders. By establishing shared norms for accountability, oversight, and responsible use, the region can mitigate the risks of inadvertent escalation and pave the way for long-term strategic stability.

About the Author

Ryo HINATA-YAMAGUCHI is an Associate Professor at the Institute for International Strategy, Tokyo International University; Senior Non-Resident Fellow at the Atlantic Council Scowcroft Center for Strategy and Security Indo-Pacific Security Initiative; and Adjunct Senior Fellow at the Pacific Forum. Ryo has presented, published, and consulted on a variety of topics relating to defence and security, and transport governance in the Indo-Pacific. Ryo previously served as a non-commissioned officer in the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (reserve) and also held positions at the University of Tokyo, Pusan National University, and Universitas Muhammadiyah Malang. Ryo received his PhD from the University of New South Wales, MA in Strategic and Defence Studies and BA in Security Analysis from the Australian National University and was also a Korea Foundation Language Training Fellow.

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Image: Yuichiro Chino, Getty Images.