Following September 11, 2001, Japan's defense strategy underwent significant changes, as argued by Daniel Kliman. He highlights a shift in perception among both elites and the public towards a more realpolitik approach to national security, moving away from traditional norms and legal constraints. This shift is illustrated by Japan's involvement in various defense initiatives, such as deploying the Maritime Self-Defense Force to the Indian Ocean, introducing missile defense systems, and contributing troops for Iraq's reconstruction efforts.
