Japan Establishes First Central Intelligence Agency to Counter Russian Espionage

Japan is taking a significant step in reshaping its post-World War II security posture by establishing its first central intelligence agency since the war. This move, led by conservative Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi who took office last year, aims to address the growing threat of Russian espionage and foreign interference amid a rapidly changing security environment. The new agency, developed with assistance from Western allies including the US, Australia, and Germany, will focus on halting Russia's increasing infiltration into Japan.

In recent years, Japan has become a key hub for Russian spies who have relocated there following their expulsion from Western countries after Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022. According to a New York Times investigation, Japan's weak espionage laws and advanced high-tech industry have made it a critical source for Russia to acquire and smuggle military components, helping Moscow circumvent international sanctions. The report highlights a secret Russian intelligence unit known as "Directorate 20," operating covertly in Tokyo under diplomatic or business covers, with its leader disguised as an employee of the Russian airline Aeroflot.

Japan's historically limited investment in intelligence capabilities has left it vulnerable to foreign spying and disinformation campaigns, including those by China, which has used Japanese-language media outlets to spread propaganda. Western intelligence officials have provided informal guidance on cyber defense and industrial espionage countermeasures. Germany's foreign intelligence chief recently visited Tokyo to discuss cooperation on the new agency.

Prime Minister Takaichi's broader security agenda includes a nearly 10% increase in Japan's defense budget to 9 trillion yen ($57 billion), the deployment of long-range missiles capable of reaching Chinese territory, and efforts to revise Article 9 of Japan's pacifist constitution, which currently restricts military engagement. The government has also relaxed rules on exporting lethal weapons to strengthen Japan's defense industry. Officials emphasize the urgency of these measures amid rising threats from Russia, China, and North Korea.

Government spokesman Minoru Kihara stressed the need to rigorously address foreign intelligence activities threatening Japan's national security, while ruling party lawmaker Akihisa Shiozaki cited a strong sense of crisis driving these reforms. The establishment of the intelligence agency marks a pivotal shift in Japan's defense and intelligence policy, reflecting its response to evolving geopolitical challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.