Why Japan has suspended its annual military parade | The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentIndependentNext articleIndependent Bulletin homepageSocial PartnerWe are 8 logo (opens in a new tab)AllNewsSportCultureLifestyleShweta SharmaWednesday 13 August 2025 15:29 BSTSatellite images reveal alarming scale of China’s military build-up in disputed watersJapan has suspended its annual large-scale military event, citing urgent security demands amid growing threats from China, Russia, and North Korea.The defence ministry stated it is now difficult to continue the event as it focuses on maintaining a “watertight defence posture in the face of the most severe and complex security environment since the end of World War II”.The annual review, a ceremonial display of defence capabilities and readiness, was traditionally held to boost morale and public understanding of the Self-Defence Forces (SDF).Defence minister Gen Nakatani explained that the extensive preparations for the review placed too heavy a burden on troops, potentially disrupting essential training and surveillance duties.The decision follows intensifying military activities in the region, including a Chinese naval drill near Japan in June involving simultaneous aircraft carrier operations, which Tokyo deemed unprecedented.In fullJapan says it is too busy with Russia, China and North Korea to hold annual military paradeThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in