Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth completed a key visit to Japan on March 30, 2025, reinforcing the U.S.-Japan alliance and advancing efforts to reestablish deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region.
During his visit, Hegseth participated in the 80th anniversary ceremony of the Battle of Iwo Jima, emphasizing the importance of the U.S.-Japan partnership for regional peace and security. He also met with Japanese Defense Minister Nakatani to discuss deepening defense ties through enhanced training, exercises, and technology cooperation.
Hegseth announced Phase One of upgrading U.S. Forces Japan (USFJ) to a Joint Force Headquarters, which will improve coordination with Japan’s newly established Self-Defense Forces Joint Operations Command. This move will strengthen the readiness of both nations to respond to crises and bolster deterrence efforts in the region.
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