On 1 July 2014, Japan's cabinet has approved a landmark change in security policy, paving the way for its military to fight overseas.
Under its constitution, Japan is barred from using force to resolve conflicts except in cases of self-defence.
But a reinterpretation of the law will now allow “collective self-defence” - using force to defend allies under attack.
PM Shinzo Abe has been pushing hard for the move, arguing Japan needs to adapt to a changing security environment. “No matter what the circumstances, I will protect Japanese people's lives and peaceful existence,” he told journalists after the change was approved.
The decision must be passed by parliament, which the ruling bloc controls. But by reinterpreting rather than revising the constitution, Abe avoids the need for a public referendum.
The decision is also highly controversial in a nation where post-war pacifist identify is firmly entrenched.
US Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said in a statement that the change will enable the Japan Self-Defense Forces to engage in a wider range of operations and that it will strengthen the US-Japan alliance. Hagel said in his statement that he looks forward to discussing the decision when he meets with his Japanese counterpart, Defence Minister Itsunori Onodera, in Washington next week.