The government of Japan has started its study to rename the Air Self Defense Force to the Air and Space Self Defense Force, as an attempt to strengthen defense in outer space, a new critical domain for Japan's security. This will b e the first revision of the name of the self defense forces in ground, maritime and air since the foundation of the SDF in 1954.
The new name and organization will take effect by FY2023 after revision of the Self Defense and relevant laws.
JASDF will launch 'space operation unit' in FY2020 that will start from April 1 this year. This unit will be expanded afterward to be able to operate fully by FY2023, expecting information sharing with the Space Force of U.S.
Japan is aware of Chinese and Russian military capability development in space by developing 'killer satellite' to attack other countries' space assets.■
