Japan and Australia are moving to expand their defence cooperation. Under a new plan, Japanese forces will be able to use Australian missile ranges to test advanced weapons, including hypersonic missiles.
Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles and Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi announced the move after talks in Canberra on Tuesday.
The two countries agreed to develop a new arrangement for Japan to use Australian missile ranges over the next decade. The plan is expected to cover several types of missile systems.
However, the framework is still being developed and is not yet operational.
Koizumi said Japan wants its Self-Defense Forces to carry out test launches of stand-off weapons in Australia. These weapons would include hypersonic missiles. He added that both countries would speed up talks to make the testing possible.
Australia offers more space for missile testing
Australia has large and remote areas that are suitable for missile trials. Japan, by comparison, has less space available for large-scale weapons testing.
As a result, access to Australian ranges could help Tokyo develop its long-range strike and defence capabilities. It could also support Japan’s efforts to improve military readiness as security concerns grow across the Indo-Pacific.
Marles said Australia could provide “strategic depth” for Japan.
Defence cooperation between the two countries is also expanding beyond military exercises. It now includes logistics, maintenance, technology and weapons development.
Japan and Australia expand defence projects
The talks also included progress on Project Boobook. It is the first defence co-development project involving Japanese industry and Australia’s Defence Department.
The project uses laser technology to help detect incoming threats. It is also designed to improve awareness for forces operating on land and near coastal areas.
Officials said prototype field trials in Australia had been completed successfully.
Meanwhile, defence industry ties between Japan and Australia continue to grow.
Earlier this year, the two countries signed contracts for a A$10 billion program involving 11 upgraded Mogami-class frigates for the Royal Australian Navy.
The first three ships are expected to be built in Japan by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. Another eight are planned for construction in Western Australia.
Japan and Australia have also increased joint military training and information sharing. Japanese F-35 fighter jets recently operated from Darwin during multinational exercises.
The closer partnership comes as both countries respond to growing security challenges. These include China’s military expansion, North Korea’s missile and nuclear programs, and wider uncertainty across the Indo-Pacific.
The proposed missile-testing deal is another sign that defence ties between Japan and Australia are becoming deeper and more operational.
I wonder if Japan will be able to defend us from infiltration and takeover by Israel?