Importance Score: 75 / 100 🔴
TOKYO – U.S. Defense Secretary has lauded Japan as an “indispensable partner” in efforts to deter growing Chinese assertiveness in the region. During his visit, he announced the upgrade of the U.S. military command in Japan to a new “war-fighting headquarters,” signaling a strengthened US-Japan alliance focused on regional security and military cooperation. This move underscores the deepening partnership aimed at addressing challenges posed by China and bolstering deterrence in the Indo-Pacific.
Strengthening US-Japan Defense Alliance Amidst Regional Concerns
During his inaugural Asia tour, with Japan marking his second destination, the Defense Secretary emphasized the imperative for both nations to accelerate the enhancement of their military capabilities. This urgency stems from the region’s confrontation with increasingly assertive military actions by China, including potential scenarios around Taiwan.
“Japan stands as our indispensable partner in deterring Communist Chinese military aggression,” he stated at the outset of discussions with Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani in Tokyo. “The U.S. is acting swiftly, as you are aware, to re-establish deterrence in this region and across the globe.”
These remarks serve as reassurance at a time when Japan has expressed apprehension regarding potential shifts in U.S. engagement in the region under the “America First” policy. Japanese defense officials, who opted for anonymity due to protocol, noted that President Trump’s previous threats to impose trade tariffs on Japan, a key U.S. ally, had amplified these concerns.
Joint Military Development and Production
Both nations reached a consensus to expedite initiatives for the joint development and production of missiles, including Advanced Medium-Range Air to Air Missiles (MRAAM). They are also considering the production of SM-6 surface-to-air missiles to alleviate munitions shortages, according to Minister Nakatani. Furthermore, ministers concurred on accelerating processes related to the maintenance of U.S. naval vessels and aircraft in Japan. This initiative seeks to reinforce and complement both Japanese and U.S. defense industrial bases, enhancing the US-Japan defense cooperation framework.
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Upgrading Command Structure for Enhanced Joint Operations
In July, Japan and the U.S. finalized a decision to enhance the command and control structure for both the Japanese military and U.S. forces stationed in Japan under the Biden administration. This significant structural modification is designed to augment joint operational and response capabilities. Japan hosts over 50,000 U.S. troops, highlighting its critical role in regional security.
Last week, Tokyo inaugurated the Japan Joint Operations Command (JJOC). This command is tasked with coordinating Japan’s Ground, Maritime, and Air Self-Defense Forces, representing a substantial step toward strengthening contingency response capabilities and improving interoperability with the U.S. military for more effective joint operations.
“War-Fighting Headquarters” to Bolster Deterrence
The Defense Secretary announced the upgrade of the existing U.S. Forces Japan command. This involves establishing a unified operational commander who will function as a joint force headquarters. This new “war-fighting headquarters” will liaise with its Japanese counterpart to enhance the speed and capability of joint military operations, further solidifying the US-Japan alliance.
According to the Pentagon chief, this reorganization of U.S. troops is a measure to better prepare for potential conflict. He affirmed that while both America and Japan are committed to peace, “we must be prepared” for any contingency, emphasizing the importance of deterrence.
Japanese defense officials indicated they do not anticipate significant alterations in their responsibilities or an increase in U.S. troop numbers in Japan as a result of this command upgrade.
Focus on Southwestern Islands and Taiwan Strait
In a joint press conference, both the Defense Secretary and Minister Nakatani affirmed their agreement on the necessity to bolster Japan’s defense posture in the Southwestern islands. These islands hold strategic importance due to their location along contested areas in the East China Sea and proximity to Taiwan, making them critical for enhancing deterrence against China.
He underscored the need for “sustaining, robust, ready, and credible deterrence” throughout the Indo-Pacific region, including the Taiwan Strait. He emphasized Japan’s frontline position in any potential contingency in the western Pacific, highlighting the significance of the US-Japan alliance for regional stability and security.
China asserts its claim over Taiwan as sovereign territory. Under the 1979 Taiwan Relations Act, the U.S. is obligated to provide Taiwan with sufficient military resources and technology to deter potential invasion. U.S. arms sales to Taiwan consistently provoke strong objections from Beijing.
Honoring Shared History and Commitment
On Saturday, the Defense Secretary participated in the U.S.-Japan joint memorial ceremony commemorating the war dead from the Battle of Iwo Jima, marking the 80th anniversary of one of World War II’s most intense battles. He lauded the robust alliance that has developed between these former adversaries, recognizing the deep ties forging a strong US-Japan alliance.
Philippines Stop and Regional Commitments
Prior to his arrival in Japan, the Defense Secretary visited the Philippines, where he reassured Manila of Washington’s commitment to strengthening ties with the Southeast Asian nation that faces maritime disputes with Beijing, reinforcing U.S. dedication to regional partners in the face of Chinese assertiveness throughout the Indo-Pacific.