This is a hypothetical scenario. Let's suppose the following:
1. Japan pulled out most of its troops from the Chinese front following a truce with Chiang, on the condition that Manchukuo be kept around and there will be help in crushing the Communist once and for all. (Likely cries of ASB, but let's just suppose this for the moment).
2. Instead of all the worthless domestic developments, Japan had access to German technological developments (Acht-acht, Panther, all that sort of stuff) and had the capacity to manufacture them in substantial numbers (again, ASB-class, but just go along with the show).
3. Japan had starting from the end of the Battle of Kursk to prepare.
4. The nukes are not going to drop anytime soon (or will be ignored).
Given the above circumstances, and assuming the USSR went along near identical plans in OTL, how could have Japan at least stalemated the USSR Operation? Any comments on the amount of men needed, constructions necessary for defense, overall strategy are welcome.