Tokyo : Japan and Australia have agreed to bolster security cooperation in response to China’s growing assertiveness and other Indo-Pacific security challenges. The two nations reached the decision during the 12th 2+2 Foreign and Defence Ministers’ Meeting in Tokyo, expanding collaboration in defence, cyber, and maritime sectors.

Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya and Defence Minister General Nakatani, alongside Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong and Defence Minister Richard Marles, outlined plans to strengthen bilateral deterrence capabilities. Both nations aim to enhance interoperability, joint exercises, and defence technology collaboration, including advanced unmanned systems.

Australia and Japan have agreed to elevate their Special Strategic Partnership, covering logistics, cyber security, and supply chain resilience. The upgraded framework will lead to more joint exercises and operational coordination between their defence forces, reinforcing regional stability.

The meeting highlighted Australia’s selection of the upgraded Mogami-class frigate for its AUD 10 billion program. Australian naval vessels have conducted multiple port visits to Japan, including HMAS Brisbane’s upcoming maintenance in Yokosuka, marking significant progress in naval cooperation.

General Nakatani emphasized accelerating cooperation between the two nations’ defence industries, advancing joint development of defence equipment and technology. This includes consultations on operational scope, objectives, and performance to ensure cohesive action across all services and domains.

Penny Wong noted the partnership’s expansion into new areas such as economic security, cyber resilience, and supply chain diversification. Richard Marles highlighted over 40 joint activities under the Reciprocal Access Agreement, including trilateral exercises with the United States, reflecting a maturing and robust defence relationship.

The strengthened Japan-Australia security framework signals a coordinated approach to emerging threats in the Indo-Pacific, reinforcing deterrence and enhancing collaboration across multiple domains, from cyber to maritime defence.

Key Takeaways :

Japan and Australia bolster security cooperation amid China’s assertiveness.
Elevation of Special Strategic Partnership covering defence, cyber, logistics.
Focus on maritime cooperation, advanced tech, and joint exercises.
Moves reinforce regional stability and preparedness in the Indo-Pacific.

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