Japan and Taiwan heighten coast guard collaboration amidst China's territorial assertions

In June, Japan and Taiwan engaged in a joint training exercise among their coast guards near the Sakishima Islands, showcasing an emerging military collaboration amid rising tensions with China. This drill marked a significant operational advancement following a break in diplomatic ties with Taipei by Japan in 1972. The exercises are seen as crucial for enhancing maritime cooperation and are part of Japan’s broader strategy to strengthen regional security in response to China's increasing coast guard activity around Taiwan and the disputed Senkaku Islands. Both countries are reportedly planning to extend this program to other allied nations. The 2025 election of Sanae Takaichi as Japan's prime minister indicates a possible shift towards more assertive security cooperation with Taiwan, potentially aggravating relations with Beijing. The drill is part of a predictable trend where Japan enhances its military capabilities in light of escalating Chinese maritime threats and claims over contested territories in the East China Sea. Reports highlight that Japan has initiated additional upgrades to its maritime surveillance capacity, reflecting a persistent concern over Chinese patrols near the Senkaku Islands and Taiwan-administered features. This military exercise occurs in a context where the U.S. has encouraged Japan to enhance its defense capabilities, particularly to deter Chinese aggression in a region considered vital for international shipping and geopolitical stability. Japan's commitment to institutionalizing coast guard training with Taiwan is significant, as both countries seek to present a united front against increasing military activities by China. The Japanese government has also shown intentions to acquire advanced surveillance and combat technologies to better respond to threats in territorial waters. Amid these developments, the forthcoming large-scale military exercises involving the U.S., Japan, and Australia are projected to reinforce trilateral military cooperation and further establish Japan's role in the regional security framework. All these maneuvers are undeniably seen as Japan's attempt to counterbalance China's growing military footprint in the Pacific and assert its sovereignty over disputed territories, which are critical to its national security agenda.