Japan to bolster counter-intelligence after report calls it Russian 'spy hub'

Russia has allegedly transformed Japan into a significant hub for intelligence gathering and a crucial supplier of dual-use technology essential for its war efforts in Ukraine, according to a New York Times investigation. The report highlights that approximately 90% of Russian missiles and drones incorporate components manufactured in Japan.

The investigation points to Maksim Vladimirovich Filchenkov, an operative working under a cover identity at the Tokyo office of Aeroflot, the Russian national airline, as the individual responsible for Russia's intelligence operations in Japan. The report also suggests that Russia exploits Japan's comparatively weak espionage laws to facilitate these activities.

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Japan recognizes the increasing necessity to counter foreign intelligence activities that threaten national security in a rapidly evolving global environment.

In response, Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Terada stated on July 13 that Japan recognizes the increasing necessity to counter foreign intelligence activities that threaten national security in a rapidly evolving global environment. While Terada declined to comment directly on the New York Times report, he informed reporters that Japan must adopt a more stringent approach to this issue. He also noted that the Japanese parliament has passed relevant legislation this year, paving the way for the establishment of a new national agency tasked with coordinating Japan's currently fragmented intelligence operations.

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Japan must adopt a more stringent approach to this issue.