Japan Creates First Post-War Intelligence Agency to Combat Russian Spying

The Government of Japan is establishing its first centralized intelligence body since World War II following revelations that Russian military intelligence used Tokyo as a hub to procure high-tech components for the war in Ukraine. Ukrainian officials provided evidence that approximately 90% of Russian missiles and drones contain Japanese semiconductors and circuit boards from companies such as Panasonic and Toshiba. These operations were allegedly led by Maksim Vladimirovich Filchenkov, a GRU officer from the 20th Directorate who operated under the cover of an Aeroflot employee.

To bypass export restrictions, the procurement network utilized logistics firms like Proco Air and intermediary companies in Vietnam, Uzbekistan, and Sri Lanka. In response, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi is leading a security overhaul to address Japan's historical lack of comprehensive anti-espionage laws. The National Diet passed legislation in May to transform the Cabinet Intelligence and Research Office into a National Intelligence Council for analysis and a 700-strong National Intelligence Bureau for operations.

Chief Government Spokesman Minoru Kihara stated that Japan must address foreign intelligence activities with greater rigor. To build these new capabilities, Tokyo privately consulted with Western allies, including the United States, Australia, and Germany's Federal Intelligence Service. This initiative coincides with a record $58 billion defense budget and the easing of bans on lethal weapon exports as Japan seeks to modernize its defense against threats from Russia, China, and North Korea.