Is Japan’s Army Ready for Battle?

Japanese cruise missiles and nuclear weapons are some way off. The more pressing issue is the battle-readiness of the SDF. For decades it was deemed legitimate only so long as it maintained the minimum necessary force to protect the nation. America shouldered the burden of Japan’s defence. For most people, the SDF’s primary role was in providing disaster relief. Military experts still consider it a hollow force. How would it perform if put to the test?