
The U.S.-Japan alliance is at its strongest, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III said during his meeting with Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani in Tokyo.
“We share a commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, and I’m proud of the progress we’ve made over the last four years,” Austin stated.
Key advancements include enhanced force posture, defense industrial cooperation, and improved command and control systems. Austin highlighted the collaboration with other regional partners like Australia, South Korea, and the Philippines, noting the shared goal of maintaining stability and peace in the region.
Acknowledging challenges such as coercive actions in the East and South China Seas, along with threats from Russia and North Korea, Austin reaffirmed the U.S.’s commitment to regional deterrence. “America’s extended deterrence commitment to Japan and South Korea remains ironclad,” he emphasized.
During his visit, Austin also met Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, where both leaders reiterated their shared vision for regional stability and cooperation.
Engagements in Japan
Earlier, Austin visited Yokohama North Dock for a classified briefing with U.S. Army officials on ongoing initiatives in Japan, including a meeting with soldiers from U.S. Army Japan and the recently deployed 5th Composite Watercraft Company. This deployment marks the first overseas activation of such a unit, following announcements made at the 2023 U.S.-Japan 2+2 meeting.
Austin also toured Yokota Air Base, where he met with Air Force Lt. Gen. Stephen F. Jost, the new commander of U.S. Forces Japan. Discussions included updates on alliance defense activities and efforts to transform U.S. Forces Japan into a Joint Force Headquarters (JFHQ).
The transformation involves upgrades to personnel, resources, and facilities to support expanded missions. A senior defense official expressed confidence in implementing these changes soon, ensuring the JFHQ is equipped to operate seamlessly with Japanese forces in both peacetime and contingencies.
The visit underscored the United States’ enduring commitment to strengthening its alliances and ensuring peace and security in the Indo-Pacific.
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