Japan has made changes to its nuclear laws to make it easier to build nukes. The language change, by many, suggests that because of 'national
security', Japan might need nukes. However, because of the US/Japan alliance, there could be many others options:
What in that article makes you think Japan's status has changed so drastically that they are now building nukes in secret? Heck what makes you think
the Japanese don't and haven't already had them for awhile? Personally I've always had a sneaking suspicion that Japan either has them already or
has the capability to whip them up in under 30 days if the need arises.