Post by : Saif Rahman

Australia and Japan are set to enhance their defence collaboration significantly. Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles is scheduled to travel to Japan for a two-day visit starting Saturday, where he will meet with Japan’s Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi. This visit comes against the backdrop of escalating security challenges in the Indo-Pacific area.

The objective of the visit, as indicated by Australian officials, is to foster strong relations with Japan’s incoming administration under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Both countries are aligned in their perspectives on regional security, aiming to bolster their cooperation in the face of increasing military activities and geopolitical tensions.

Minister Marles emphasized the resilience of the relationship between the two nations, highlighting that it is underpinned by “strategic alignment” and “shared ambitions.” Both nations regard each other as key allies committed to maintaining regional peace and openness.

Relations between Japan and China have soured significantly, especially after Prime Minister Takaichi suggested that Japan might consider military action if China were to attack Taiwan. This statement has intensified tensions around Taiwan, which China asserts claims on.

Practical defence collaboration between Australia and Japan has also been on the rise. In August, Australia finalized a substantial A$10 billion ($6.5 billion) contract with Japan’s Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to construct new warships—representing Japan's largest defence export since it lifted a ban on military sales abroad in 2014. Minister Marles is expected to tour the Mitsubishi shipyard in Nagasaki during his visit.

These new vessels, known as Mogami-class frigates, will enhance Australia’s capabilities to safeguard vital trade routes and monitor its northern seas, which are increasingly critical as China amplifies its military presence in the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

Defence Minister Koizumi indicated that their upcoming discussions will focus on intelligence sharing, assessing regional threats, and outlining future steps to enhance defence ties. The objective is to better prepare for potential challenges and ensure rapid responses to rising tensions.

Following his Japan trip, Marles is set to head to Washington for discussions with U.S. and British defence officials about the AUKUS partnership, which supports Australia in acquiring nuclear-powered submarines. Recent updates from U.S. officials have confirmed completion of a review of the project, exploring further strengthening strategies.

Additioanlly, Australia is undergoing a significant restructuring of its defence department aimed at expediting shipbuilding processes and modernizing naval forces, reflecting the region's swift military transformations.

This visit underscores the growing importance of Australia and Japan’s partnership in a landscape marked by rising security concerns, showcasing their commitment to remaining united and prepared.

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