Japan is no longer treating cyber threats as a background policy issue. As attacks soar across the region, Japan has taken the position toward active cyber defence, which in turn signals a more assertive national security posture. Mr. Kitamura, former National Security Advisor of Japan, is aware that the threat environment left little room for delay and understands why Japan drew a line in the sand. “The risk is always there,” he said. “Considering the surrounding security situation and the public opinion approved the passing of the new legislation.” The approach did not come without controversy. Expanded authorities raised concerns around communications secrecy, but Mr. Kitamura argues the tradeoff ...