Now is the Time to Move from Okinawa to Hokkaido

摘要

In November 2004, Japan's Ministry of Finance proposed a massive restructuring of the Japan Self Defense Force (JSDF) permanently based in Hokkaido. This proposal, if enacted, presents a unique opportunity to correct artillery and other ground combat arms training deficiencies that affect U.S. forces on Okinawa. The USMC should pursue stationing combat units on soon-to-be vacated JSDF bases in Hokkaido to correct current Okinawa-based units' training deficiencies and to strengthen U.S. military, Government of Japan (GOJ), and Okinawa relations. A move to Hokkaido will allow U.S. units to train without the training restrictions caused by urbanization and an unfriendly Okinawan population. For 12th Marines, a move would also end its reliance on the artillery relocation program. Opposition and possible obstacles to the move are either poorly thought out or easily surmountable. A move by combat arms units to Hokkaido will not affect regional stability, but only serve to strengthen local Okinawan relations and the U.S.-Japan Security Alliance. U.S. concerns with regard to Hokkaido's base infrastructure could easily be addressed by the GOJ. Finally, the GOJ should not have difficulties negotiating with Hokkaido politicians, given the economic benefits their communities will receive. The recent announcement by the Ministry of Finance to reduce JSDF on Hokkaido is an opportunity that must be aggressively pursued by the U.S. Government and GOJ planners.