Japan should reshape its defence capabilities in the face of the changing nature of threats to its security, including the possible acquisition of technology to mount pre-emptive strikes against foreign missile bases, a top-level panel recommended on Monday.The panel, which sent its report to Junichiro Koizumi, the prime minister, said Japan might also need to redefine its security alliance with the US, the postwar foundation of Japan’s defence. It stopped short of calling China a military threat, despite leaks from panel members suggesting it might, and reiterated Japan’s commitment to remaining a non-nuclear power. However, it said a previous commitment to possessing only the minimum defence capabilities necessary to repel attack should be dropped.Full Story