The Japan Self-Defence Forces were first established in the year 1945 and women were mainly recruited as nurses. However, as years passed, opportunities for females in the Japanese army also took a rise.
In less than 50 years since JSDF was formed around 6000 females have served in all the branches except for those which are in direct combat. Hikaru Saeki became the very first woman in Japan to receive star rankings as both an admiral and a general in the year 2001.
22. Norway
Norway became one of the first armed forces in Europe in1938 and opened all its doors to women. Since 1980, even Norwegian females are also participating in the combat roles which are initially reserved for males.
Norwegian males and females are seen equally in the eyes of the government. All female citizens are obligated to appear before the conscription board and go through the examination. However, serving the country remains as a voluntary decision for now.