Defense Technology International - In a historic event considering the bitter conflict in the the previous century between the two nations, the first Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force warship to visit China since World War 2 arrived in the port of Zhangjiang on June 24, 2008.

Associated Press - A Japanese navy destroyer departed Thursday to resume the country's anti-terror mission in the Indian Ocean after a divisive battle in parliament caused a three-month suspension.

Associated Press - Japan's defense minister ordered the navy Friday to ready ships for dispatch to the Indian Ocean to join the fight on terror, ending a three-month hiatus but deepening a political battle at home with the opposition.

BBC - Japan has for the first time shot down a ballistic missile in flight, testing a defence system aimed at warding off any missile threat from its neighbours.

Associated Press - Japan's Defense Ministry has denied a media report that it is planning to withdraw its naval mission to support U.S.-led troops in Afghanistan on Nov. 1, saying the government expects parliament to approve an extension before then.