Part 12/14:
Friedman considers Japan’s rising defense posture as part of this broader regional reshaping. Japan has increased its defense budget significantly, aiming to reassert itself militarily after decades of pacifism post-World War II. With historic tensions with China, Japan's efforts at rearming are viewed as a necessary step to balance regional power.
Further, Friedman notes the importance of Australia and the broader Western Pacific alliances. These nations are increasingly integrating with the US and Japan, creating a strategic bloc aimed at countering Chinese assertiveness. Japan's balance between economic strength and military capacity exemplifies a broader trend where regional powers seek to maintain independence while balancing Chinese influence.