On October 1, 2015, the Japan Ministry of Defense (JMOD) implemented a major reorganization. The reorganization effort focuses on streamlining a policy- and decision-making processes on two of its key functions — operation of the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) and acquisition of defense equipment. Ever since Abe administration announced the new three principles for Japan’s defense equipment transfers, many have pointed out the need for the MOD to streamline its own defense acquisition process, strategize Japan’s defense technology policy, and facilitate private sector efforts to pursue collaboration with non-Japanese firms. The report issued on September 30 — the eve of ATLA’s official launch — by a JMOD advisory group on defense technology and equipment transfer directly speaks to this need. If Japan is serious about maintaining an indigenous defense technological base that is robust enough to prevent Japan from growing completely dependent on foreign defense technology, pursuing a greater rate of return by expanding the volume of sales or better integrating into the global defense equipment R&D and production network are the only options.