 In September 1882, Iwakura Tomomi had also informed the Dajōkan that increased naval strength was essential for a maritime country like Japan.If Japan went to war, it would not have enough vessels to protect the home islands and if it used its fleet to protect the home islands it would not be able to mount an attack overseas.As the Chinese were building up their naval forces, and Japan would be unable to defend itself against China in a possible future conflict.