Australia to boost military cooperation with Japan

Australia, Japan, and the United States are enhancing their defense collaboration in response to China's increasing military assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region. Senior officials from Australia and Japan convened for the 11th Australia-Japan 2+2 Foreign and Defense Ministerial Consultation in Victoria, where they discussed significant military cooperation plans. These include Japan's participation in U.S. Marine rotations in northern Australia and expanded joint exercises between their air forces. The discussions were prompted by recent Chinese incursions into Japanese territory, including a surveillance plane breaching Japanese airspace and a survey ship entering its territorial waters. Japanese Foreign Minister Kamikawa Yoko emphasized the necessity of strengthening Japan-Australia security ties amidst a challenging security environment. Under the new plans, Japanese troops may join up to 2,500 U.S. Marines training annually in Australia’s Northern Territory, and both nations could collaborate on long-range missile systems. This strategic partnership marks a significant shift in military relations, especially considering Japan's historical context as an adversary during World War II. Analysts view these developments as a reflection of the successful reconciliation between Australia and Japan, moving beyond wartime memories. The formal military ties between Australia and the U.S. have been a cornerstone of Australia's security strategy since the 1950s, and this new collaboration with Japan is seen as a vital step in addressing regional security challenges.