Japan

The Defense of Japan 2026 White Paper underscores Japan’s perception of security threats but leaves open questions about policy independence from the US.

Japan’s recent intelligence reforms complement its evolving security strategy, but historical concerns and questions regarding capabilities and political influence need attention.

India, Japan and Australia must contribute to the Indo-Pacific through trilateral cooperation to build a multi-layered network of competencies.

Japan–Philippines negotiations on maritime delimitation could have implications for cross-Strait relations.

The Balikatan Exercise 2026 underscores efforts to enhance interoperability, maritime security, and deterrence in the Indo-Pacific.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s visit to the United States underscored Japan’s desire to maintain strong US ties amid global uncertainty.

In the wake of the West Asian crisis, the challenge for Japan, a US ally, is to maintain strategic autonomy given its energy dependencies on the region.

In the wake of the West Asian crisis, the challenge for Japan, a US ally, is to maintain strategic autonomy given its energy dependencies on the region.

The Ministry of Defence document, ‘Directions of Change in Defence Capabilities 1’, released on 12 March, offers a glimpse into the evolution of Japan’s security strategy.

The Japan–Australia Special Strategic Partnership has become an important pillar of Indo-Pacific stability.