Geopolitical Re-alignment, Maritime Securitization, and Sovereign Defense Autonomy: Assessing Japan's Post-2024 National Security Strategy

Global Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies | Vol. 16, No. 8, August 2026 | pp. 172–180

DOI: 10.46882/2026/GJPCS/160813

Article Type: Original Research Paper

Title: Geopolitical Re-alignment, Maritime Securitization, and Sovereign Defense Autonomy: Assessing Japan's Post-2024 National Security Strategy

Names of Authors: Siddharth K. Nair¹, Sarah L. Bernstein²

Authors’ Affiliations: ¹School of Global Studies, Gothenburg University, Gothenburg, Sweden; ²Oxford Internet Institute, University of Oxford, Oxford, United Kingdom

Abstract:
This study investigates the rapid strategic re-alignment of Japan’s national defense architecture, analyzing the operational implications of its post-2024 counter-strike capabilities and maritime containment strategies up to mid-2026. Utilizing a structural realist analytical model paired with quantitative regional maritime deployment logs, we dissect the coordination challenges facing Indo-Pacific security alliances amid heightened gray-zone pressure. The empirical results show that while the state has successfully increased its defense budget allocation to 2.0% of GDP, significant communication blockades persist within public-private cybersecurity architectures. Statistical threat modeling indicates that private maritime supply-chain networks operating without integrated, state-backed encryption linkages face an 84% higher vulnerability to systemic transnational cyber-sabotage and digital tracking campaigns. The study highlights how shifting regional sovereign power dynamics complicates the enforcement of traditional non-proliferation norms. We argue that maintaining long-term maritime stability across East Asian littoral corridors requires transitioning from fragmented unilateral defense upgrades toward establishing a unified, multi-layered regional intelligence-sharing clearinghouse.

Keywords: Geopolitical Re-alignment; Japan; Maritime Securitization; Defense Autonomy; Cyber-Sabotage; Gray-Zone Warfare

Manuscript Timeline: Received: January 12, 2025; Revised: April 22, 2025; Accepted: June 10, 2025; Published: August 31, 2026

Citation: Nair, S. K., & Bernstein, S. L. (2026). Geopolitical Re-alignment, Maritime Securitization, and Sovereign Defense Autonomy: Assessing Japan's Post-2024 National Security Strategy. Global Journal of Peace and Conflict Studies, 16(8), 172–180. DOI: 10.46882/2026/GJPCS/160813

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