Commentary Change often comes so slowly in Japan that it’s easy to overlook. That’s especially true with the Japan Self Defense Force (JSDF)—Japan’s military. Five years ago the idea of foreign troops—other than the Americans—training in Japan was thought impossible. It was: “unconstitutional,” “politically explosive,” and for Japanese officials, “too difficult” (preceded by the sound of air sucking through teeth). Yet, from May 11 to 17, French Army troops will be training in Kyushu at Kirishima Training Ground along with the Japan Ground Self Defense Force (GSDF) and U.S. Marines. The exercise will involve the GSDF’s Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade (ARDB)—Japan’s “Marines” and will also include tabletop exercises at Camp Ainoura near Sasebo, the ARDB’s home base. Ten years ago, the idea of a Japanese amphibious force was considered equally preposterous. It wasn’t, to those who knew better, but that’s another story. This isn’t the GSDF’s first brush with the …