An experts' panel, formed in December 2007 in the Prime Minister's Office to push reform of the Defense Ministry following a series of scandalous incidents involving the Self-Defense Forces, has handed its report to Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda. The report proposes drastic organizational changes, yet it is difficult to see how they will prevent a recurrence of similar incidents. It mentions scandals such as the coverups concerning the Maritime Self-Defense Force's refueling operations in the Indian Ocean, the arrest of Vice Defense Minister Takemasa Moriya on suspicion of bribery, and the Aegis destroyer Atago's collision with a fishing boat. It calls for nurturing professionalism and strengthening discipline through better education. The recommendations seem like truisms.
So far, high-ranking civilian bureaucrats — defense counselors — have had a big say in the ministry because of their power to assist the defense minister in any matter and to intervene when he or she gives instructions to uniformed officers. The report calls for abolishing defense counselors and having politically appointed aides assist the defense chief.
In addition, an adviser on security matters would be appointed to help the prime minister. A meeting of politically appointed officials and high-ranking uniformed officers and civilian bureaucrats would serve as members on the highest forum in assisting the defense chief. Politicians should realize the need for deep military and foreign policy knowledge, and prepare themselves to lead and control a military organization with wisdom and a wider perspective.