Japan is planning to launch a robust National Intelligence Agency with around 700 personnel this summer. The agency is expected to strengthen Japan's security apparatus and help the country better address threats in a fast-evolving geopolitical landscape. Spearheaded by the ruling coalition, the decision for the new entity comes as a response to increasing cybersecurity threats and the need for enhanced counter-intelligence capabilities.

In Japan, national security is a significant concern, particularly with cybersecurity threats and counter-intelligence issues looming. Establishing a full-scale National Intelligence Agency has been a debated topic for several years, with public opinion divided. However, understanding that enhancing its intelligence capacities is crucial for its national security, Japan's ruling coalition pushed ahead with the formation of the new agency.

In comparison to the US and EU, where intelligence agencies like the CIA and MI6 have a long-standing history, Japan is relatively new to institutionalizing extensive intelligence operations. As cybercrime and international espionage become global threats, Japan's move to strengthen its intelligence infrastructure aligns with the security priorities of many western countries.