1. Why is Japan reportedly increasing the size of its submarine fleet?

2. a) Compare the number of subs Japan has/will have with the number in China's fleet.
b) Though less in number, what advantage do Japanese subs have over Chinese subs?

3. What demands has China made of the U.S. regarding ocean waters?

4. Why has China opposed plans to hold U.S.-South Korean war games in the Yellow Sea off the northeastern Chinese coast?

5. Why are Japan and China both claiming sovereignty over several remote islands in the East China Sea?

6. Ask a parent (or grandparent) how important he/she thinks it is for Japan to counterbalance China's growing military presence in the region, and to explain his/her answer.