Japan panel urges strong military amid China rise

Much of the strategy is contentious, as many Japanese remain wary of moves away from the pacifist constitution adopted after World War II.

One early sign of opposition was a drop in Abe's popularity ratings last weekend after his government forced through legislation to strengthen the protection of government secrets.

South Korea is also uncomfortable with any Japanese military expansion because it was colonized by Japan, and China is likely to protest.

“Japan's accusations and hyping of the China threat have an ulterior motive,” Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Hong Lei said on Wednesday.

“We urge Japan to follow the historical trend, walk on the path of peaceful development and make due efforts to improve ties.”

The draft security strategy says changes in America's relative influence make it necessary for Japan to expand its alliances with other countries.

It raises concern about China's rapid military expansion, as well as North Korea's nuclear and missile capabilities.

It says Japan can contribute to peace and international stability by strengthening its diplomatic and defense capabilities.

It describes Japan's alliance with the U.S. as an “indispensable” deterrent, but says it should be supplemented by Tokyo's own efforts to step up missile defenses and other capabilities.