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Japan weighs adding nuclear submarine studies to security documents

By Drooid · Oct 13, 2026, 3:12 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Japan's government is considering adding nuclear submarine study plans to its three security documents.
Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi says the public understands the need for nuclear submarine discussions.
Koizumi adds nuclear submarines would let crews work longer underwater and improve safety.
Revision of three documents targets completion by year-end 2026, with coordination to start soon.
Pundits warn debates may become contentious, while officials say the fleet’s purpose remains unclear.

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Story summary

Japan's government is considering adding nuclear submarine study plans to its three security documents.
Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi says the public understands the need for nuclear submarine discussions.
Koizumi adds nuclear submarines would let crews work longer underwater and improve safety.
Revision of three documents targets completion by year-end 2026, with coordination to start soon.
Pundits warn debates may become contentious, while officials say the fleet’s purpose remains unclear.