Japan’s Amphibious Unit to Drill More with U.S., Australians

Tokyo strengthens military ties with ‘Quad’ members amid China’s growing maritime assertiveness

Japan will bolster military drills with the United States and Australia as it deepens security ties with the two countries amid China’s growing assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region. The drills come as part of Tokyo’s efforts to strengthen its defense capabilities and promote a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific.”

The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force’s Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade will participate in the drills, which will focus on amphibious warfare and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations. The exercises are expected to take place in various locations, including Japan, the United States, and Australia.

Japan-Australia-U.S. military cooperation

The drills are part of a broader effort by Japan to strengthen its military cooperation with the United States and Australia. The three countries are members of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), a strategic forum that aims to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

In recent years, the Quad has become increasingly focused on security issues, particularly in response to China’s growing military presence in the region. The drills between Japan, the United States, and Australia are seen as a way to deter China and promote stability in the Indo-Pacific.

China’s growing maritime assertiveness

China has been increasingly assertive in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in the South China Sea. Beijing has built military outposts on artificial islands and has been conducting military exercises in the region.

China’s actions have raised concerns among other countries in the region, including Japan. Tokyo has been vocal in its criticism of China’s maritime assertiveness and has been working to strengthen its military capabilities to deter Beijing.

Japan’s defense capabilities

Japan has been gradually increasing its defense spending in recent years. In 2023, Japan’s defense budget is expected to reach a record high of 6.8 trillion yen ($51.7 billion).

Japan is also developing new weapons systems, including hypersonic missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles. The country is also working to strengthen its cyber defenses.

Conclusion

The drills between Japan, the United States, and Australia are a sign of the growing security cooperation between the three countries. The drills are also a response to China’s growing maritime assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region.