Rupal Kalebere
In an age marked by rapidly evolving geopolitical challenges, the partnership between the United States and Japan stands as a beacon of peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. This alliance, grounded in the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security, is experiencing a significant evolution as both nations take bold steps to deepen their strategic collaboration and address the region’s pressing security concerns.
The recent official visit of Prime Minister KISHIDA Fumio to Washington, D.C., and his meeting with President Joseph R. Biden, Jr. celebrated this new era of U.S.-Japan cooperation and reaffirmed a shared commitment to mutual defense. This collaboration marks a crucial step forward in strengthening the collective capacity to deter and defend against both traditional and emerging threats.
Optimizing Alliance Command and Control
A key focus of the alliance is enhancing command and control frameworks to ensure seamless integration of operations and capabilities between U.S. and Japanese forces. Upgrading respective command and control structures will improve interoperability and planning, enabling both nations to respond more effectively to peacetime and contingency scenarios. This enhanced cooperation bolsters deterrence and promotes a free and open Indo-Pacific, providing a counterbalance to growing regional security challenges.
Expanding Joint Defense Initiatives
Japan’s commitment to bolster its defense capabilities includes plans to increase its defense budget to 2% of GDP by 2027 under its National Security Strategy. Additionally, Japan’s decision to possess counterstrike capabilities and establish the Joint Operations Command within the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) enhances its ability to work closely with the United States and address shared security concerns.
The United States supports Japan’s acquisition and development of counterstrike capabilities, including providing the necessary U.S. materiel and technological support. This includes facilitating Japan’s operational capability with the Tomahawk Land Attack Missile (TLAM) system and exploring cooperative development programs for countering high-end hypersonic threats.
Building Partnerships with Like-Minded Nations
The U.S.-Japan alliance also seeks to extend its influence through collaborative efforts with other regional partners. Notable initiatives include a networked air defense architecture among the United States, Japan, and Australia, as well as trilateral exercises with the Republic of Korea.
Additionally, the alliance is exploring opportunities for cooperation with AUKUS partners on advanced capability projects, leveraging Japan’s strengths and its bilateral defense partnerships with Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States. These collaborations enhance collective security and foster a network of like-minded nations dedicated to preserving peace and stability in the region.
Reaching New Frontiers in Space
The global partnership extends to space, where the United States and Japan are leading the way to explore our solar system and return to the Moon. The recent signing of a Lunar Surface Exploration Implementing Arrangement marks a major step in this cooperation. Japan plans to provide and sustain operation of a pressurized lunar rover, while the United States will allocate two astronaut flight opportunities to the lunar surface for Japan on future Artemis missions.
A shared goal has been announced to have a Japanese national be the first non-American astronaut to land on the Moon on a future Artemis mission, assuming important benchmarks are achieved. The United States and Japan will deepen cooperation on astronaut training to facilitate this goal while managing the risks of these challenging and inspiring lunar surface missions.
The partnership also announced bilateral collaboration on a Low Earth Orbit detection and tracking constellation for missiles such as hypersonic glide vehicles, including potential collaboration with U.S. industry.
Enhancing Defense Industry Collaboration
The alliance aims to better integrate and align defense industrial policies, acquisition, and science and technology ecosystems through a new forum on Defense Industrial Cooperation, Acquisition, and Sustainment (DICAS). This initiative seeks to leverage the respective industrial bases of the United States and Japan to meet critical capability demands and maintain readiness over the long term.
By fostering co-development and co-production of advanced military technologies, such as missiles and fourth-generation fighters, and sustaining forward-deployed U.S. Navy ships and Air Force aircraft, the alliance strengthens its ability to respond effectively to regional threats.
Strengthening Extended Deterrence and Information Sharing
The U.S. and Japan are committed to deepening cooperation on extended deterrence, with discussions on the matter planned for the next security “2+2” meeting. This cooperation will enhance Japan’s defense capabilities and support its security needs in the region.
Furthermore, the alliance aims to stay ahead of growing cyber threats by enhancing information and cyber security collaboration. These efforts focus on building resilience in the information and communication technology domain, ensuring the protection of critical infrastructure.
Conclusion
The U.S.-Japan alliance represents a powerful shield against regional threats and a foundation for peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific. By advancing joint defense and security initiatives, the two nations are charting a course toward a safer and more secure world.
This historic moment in U.S.-Japan cooperation is a testament to the strength and unity of the partnership. As both navigate the challenges of the 21st century, the alliance’s shared vision and commitment to mutual defense will continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of global security.