Japanese citizens have a role to play in the defense of the country. By December 19, 2020 Advertisement Because attacks on insular Japan are likely by missile, not invasion, Japanese citizens tend to see preventing missile attacks as the best way to defend the country. For example, in recent years a majority of Japanese people approved introducing the U.S.-made missile defense system Aegis Ashore to two locations in Japan. But weaponry alone is insufficient for total national defense. Adding the pillar of civilian participation to Japan’s security is urgently necessary. The security environment surrounding Japan, including China’s military expansion and North Korea’s unstoppable nuclear program, will remain unpredictable. Technological advancements keep changing the rules and the game. Furthermore, the rapidly aging Japanese population has started facing a shortage of military personnel and more citizens vulnerable in emergencies.