Japan—a key United States ally near Russia, China and North Korea—may consider developing nuclear-powered submarines amid threats posed by regional adversaries.

Newsweek has contacted the Russian and Chinese foreign ministries and the North Korean Embassy in Beijing for comment.

Why It Matters

Under the U.S. island chain strategy, Japan forms part of a north-south defensive line known as the first island chain , which helps Washington project military power to keep its adversaries— Russia , China and North Korea—at bay and deter aggression.

Nuclear-powered submarines have operational advantages because they offer virtually unlimited endurance, speed and range. Both Russia and China operate this type of submarine, while North Korea has reportedly received Russian help t

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