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Japan and US Strengthen Defense Capabilities Amid Regional Security Concerns

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Hemin Bakir
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U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, left, and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida speak during their meeting at the prime minister's office in Tokyo on Thursday
<br>Image Credit: AP

In a joint effort to address growing security threats in the region, Japan and the United States have pledged to enhance Japan's defense capabilities, including the ability to strike targets in enemy territory.

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The ongoing weapons development by North Korea poses a significant security threat, prompting the two nations to deepen cooperation with South Korea and Australia.

The talks between Japanese ministers and US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin took place in Tokyo, where they discussed bolstering deterrence and response abilities in the face of an increasingly severe regional security environment.

Japan-U.S. Alliance Addresses Security Challenges

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The meeting between Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi, Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada, and US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin focused on strengthening the Japan-U.S. alliance to address the security challenges posed by China's assertiveness and Russia's war in Ukraine.

The strategic discussions aimed to enhance the deterrence capabilities of the alliance, aligning with Japan's National Security Strategy.

This updated strategy reflects a shift in Japan's security policy, allowing for the acquisition of counterstrike capabilities or enemy base strike capabilities.

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North Korean Missile Launch Raises Concerns

The failed North Korean satellite launch, which seemingly utilized sanctions-defying ballistic technology, further escalated tensions in the region.

Prior to the launch, Pyongyang notified the Japan Coast Guard of potential rocket fall areas, raising concerns about the country's missile capabilities.

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Japan, the United States, and South Korea strongly condemned North Korea's actions, in violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions aimed at curbing its nuclear and missile programs.

The discussions between Japan and the United States emphasized the need to safeguard security and deter any unilateral attempts to change the status quo.

Efforts to Strengthen Regional Defense Cooperation

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Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin's visit to Japan highlighted the importance of regional defense cooperation in addressing common security challenges.

The discussions paved the way for increased collaboration between Japan, the United States, South Korea, and Australia.

Recognizing the need for enhanced deterrence, the alliance aims to optimize force posture and update roles and missions. Japan, in its pursuit of expanding counterstrike capabilities, has decided to deploy U.S.-made long-range Tomahawk cruise missiles.

US japan Australia SouthKorea Defense Regional Missiles unitedstates Lloyd Austin Tomahawk cruise
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