After 81 years, Japan sends troops for war drills abroad – Is Asia preparing for war against China?

Tokyo: Japan is preparing to send its troops to the Philippines for large-scale war training, something it has not done in 81 years. The development comes as countries around Taiwan increase their military preparedness and expand cooperation in the region. The upcoming Balikatan military exercise will see Tokyo joining Washington and Manila in a wide-ranging training programme covering land, sea and air operations. This time, Japan is not sending a small humanitarian unit. It is instead deploying a large and multi-service force equipped with missiles, air defence systems and warships. A different kind of deployment The country has traditionally sent…