Why Does Shinzo Abe Want Japan Involved In War's?

Following World War II with the American's help a new constitution was written which included Article 9 which prohibits Japan's Self Defense Force from engaging in any armed conflict, even UN Peace Keeping operations.  Their involvment is restricted to humanitarin reflief.  

Shinzo Abe and a large faction of his governing Liberal Democratic Party wants to amend the constitution which would remove article 9 and allow Japanese armed forces to participate in armed conflict which a large majority oppesses.  Prime Minister Abe believes that it will restore Japan's dignity following its defeat in World War II.

After being unable to save two hostages held by Middle Eastern extremists, Prime Minister Shinzo Abe said constitutional change will be needed to protect the lives and assets of Japanese citizens.

Abe has said at times that with the current interpretation of Article 9, which forbids both the use of force to settle international disputes and the maintenance of regular armed forces, it is difficult to protect Japanese citizens in a changing security environment.

“The Liberal Democratic Party has already presented a draft amendment to Article 9, and amending it is to carry out our duty of protecting the lives and assets of Japanese citizens,” Abe told the Upper House Budget Committee on Tuesday.

Yet, Japan doesn't have the military wherewithal to carryout any military operation which could lead to, if any Japanese hostages.