Japan and U.K. strengthen defense ties with historic aircraft carrier visit

In Tokyo, defense ministers from Japan and the United Kingdom praised their growing security collaboration during a historic visit by the HMS Prince of Wales, the first foreign aircraft carrier to visit the Japanese capital. This milestone marks a significant moment in the bilateral relations, emphasizing a deep strategic alignment between the two nations. U.K. Defense Secretary John Healey articulated the pride of both nations in advancing air and naval cooperation, which is integral to the U.K.'s commitment to enhancing security in the Indo-Pacific region. Japan's Defense Minister Gen Nakatani echoed Healey's sentiments, highlighting that this new level of defense cooperation establishes them as the closest security partners across Asia and Europe. As both countries progressively expand their defense collaboration, they are also involved in developing a next-generation fighter jet as part of the Global Combat Air Program, which includes Italy. They aim to solidify the first international contract by year's end to bolster their air defense capabilities. Increasing deterrence measures against China's assertiveness has prompted Japan to seek a broader security framework beyond its traditional ally, the United States. The recent joint naval exercises featured a British F-35B fighter jet landing on the deck of Japan's JS Kaga, which underscores the strengthening military ties and highlights their ongoing military enhancement efforts.