Japan is a member of the Quad ( Quadrilateral Security Dialogue) with Australia, India and the US.

It is a is a diplomatic partnership committed to supporting a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific that is inclusive and resilient. It is a key pillar in Australia's foreign policy and complements our bilateral, regional, and multilateral cooperation.

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Australian, American, and Japanese aircraft on the tarmac at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni in Japan during a trilateral training and engagement activity. RAAF P-8A Poseidon; Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force EP-3 Orion; Japan Air Self-Defense Force RC-2
Strategic Influence

Japan ramps up defences amid concerns about China's military activities

Record defence spending is approaching two per cent of gross domestic product in the largest defence shift since WW2. Long-range missiles deployed across strategically important outer islands while national cybersecurity and intelligence capabilities continue expanding rapidly.
8 minutes
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Strategic Influence

Japan admits growing need to counter espionage after Russian ‘den of spies’ report

Growing concerns over foreign intelligence activities have prompted Japan to strengthen counter-espionage measures, following reports alleging exploitation of technology networks and procurement channels, highlighting challenges in protecting critical information and dual-use capabilities.
1 minutes
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Air & Space Power

Japan restructures Air Defense Force

Japan has renamed its air force to reflect the growing importance of the space domain, while expanding space-focused structures, personnel and capabilities to strengthen space awareness and support all-domain military operations.
2 minutes
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Poseidon aircraft from the Royal Australian Air Force, and a Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Kawasaki P-1.
Strategic Influence

In Japan, Australia has a partner for the long haul

The author argues the partnership supports long-term regional stability, economic resilience and coordinated decision-making. A reciprocal Access Agreement strengthens practical cooperation. TRISHIP improves shared air and missile information between Australia, Japan and the USA.
4 minutes
6828
Military History

Okinawa memorial day speakers reflect on sacrifice, peace and ‘heavy burden’ of US bases

Okinawa’s 81st Battle of Okinawa memorial highlighted the enduring human cost of war, remembrance of over 240,000 victims, and ongoing debate over Japan’s security policies, constitutional reform, and the long-term presence of US forces.
3 minutes
6702
Strategic Influence

Australia and Japan step up defence cooperation

The two nations are significantly expanding defence cooperation through senior-level engagements, joint exercises, cyber integration initiatives and defence industry collaboration; reinforcing interoperability, regional security coordination and strategic alignment across the Indo-Pacific security environment.
3 minutes
6508
Mogami class frigate Fort Denison
Strategic Influence

Japan further loosens its defence export rules

The relaxed rules signal a shift towards deeper international cooperation. Transfers require adherence to UN Charter obligations and war zones are generally export restricted. Southeast Asia and Pacific states may receive Japanese equipment.
6 minutes
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Strategic Influence

Japan's defence industry challenges

Japan’s defence industry is expanding to meet rising demand but faces structural challenges in funding, regulation, production scalability, and system integration, limiting its ability to sustain and surge capability in a conflict.
3 minutes
6156
Japanese and Australian Defence Ministers on vehicle.
Strategic Influence

Sanae Takaichi’s victory is a win for Indo-Pacific security

Japan’s election result strengthens regional balance by giving Tokyo greater political authority to reform institutions, and signal resolve amid growing pressure, with implications extending well beyond its domestic political landscape. Supply chain resilience a priority.
5 minutes
6011
Technology & Innovation

Another option for Australian maritime defence: Japan’s advanced anti-ship missile

Japan’s upgraded ground-launched missile offers long reach at a competitive price. It could widen Australia’s options, deepen cooperation with Japan, and complicate hostile naval movement—if transparency and integration hurdles are addressed early.
5 minutes
6000
Military History

Why Hitler declared war on the United States

Hitler seized Pearl Harbor as the moment to formalise a long-planned clash with the United States. Japan’s entry promised naval weight and distraction—so Berlin rushed to declare war first and widen the conflict fast.
12 minutes
6003
Strategic Influence

Japan okays record defence budget amid rising tensions with China

Japan has approved its biggest defence budget yet. It aims to achieve 2 per cent of gross domestic product ( Australia 2.05% in 25/26) sooner than planned. Missiles and drones are key buys—funding will likely mean higher taxes.
5 minutes
5954
Strategic Influence

Japan’s Taiwan move jolts Australia

Japan’s new stance on Taiwan signals it may act decisively, not just support. Australia, the author argues, must align planning, intelligence, and readiness with Japan and the US to strengthen collective deterrence in a more distributed Indo-Pacific.
4 minutes
5924
Air & Space Power

Japan scrambles jets after suspected Chinese drone spotted near Yonaguni island near Taiwan

Japan scrambled jets after detecting a suspected Chinese drone near Yonaguni Island, reinforcing defensive measures amid heightened regional tensions and ongoing disputes over Taiwan and missile deployments.
5 minutes
5907
Strategic Influence

Response to Chinese expansion

China’s rapid military-industrial expansion is reshaping deterrence across the Indo-Pacific. Effective stability now depends on frontline allies—especially Japan and the Philippines—working with partners to counter China’s scale.
4 minutes
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Military Management

Sleepless at the Top: Takaichi’s Work Ethic Highlights Japan’s Overwork Problem

Japan’s new leader wants people to balance work, leisure, and rest. Ironically, engaging in overtime is generally considered an important source of income and career enhancing. Overwork and karoshi (death from overwork) are sensitive issues across cultures.
4 minutes
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Strategic Influence

US Marine Corps stands up 3 new combat logistics companies in Japan

The US Marine Corps activated new logistics companies under Force Design 2030 to enhance agile support across Indo-Pacific island chains, emphasizing adaptability, modernization, and rapid response to evolving threats and contested environments.
3 minutes
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Strategic Influence

Japan edges towards hosting nuclear weapons

Japan is reviewing its long-standing ban on hosting nuclear weapons amid rising regional tensions—potentially altering deterrence strategies and signalling a shift in defence posture in response to China, Russia, and North Korea’s nuclear expansion.
3 minutes
5835
Military History

Americans planned a massive invasion of Japan for November 1945. But it didn’t happen.

The planned invasion would have caused catastrophic loss on both sides—but two atomic bombs ended the war first, reshaping military strategy, ethics, and the course of human history. Long term debate about whether the bombs were justified.
8 minutes
5812
Strategic Influence

Australia-Japan ties are about shaping outcomes, not hedging bets

The deepening defence and intelligence ties aim to shape regional security, not hedge against U.S. uncertainty. Shared priorities—countering China’s coercion, improving defence industry cooperation, and guiding U.S. strategy—define the growing strategic partnership.
4 minutes
5656
Air & Space Power

US, Japan formalize SAMURAI project arrangement to advance AI safety in unmanned aerial vehicles

The United States—Japan SAMURAI initiative develops Runtime Assurance AI for UAVs, allowing autonomous drones to monitor their own performance, ensure safe operations, and support integration with next-generation fighter aircraft while strengthening allied capabilities.
1 minutes
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Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force SH-60 Seahawk on HMAS Brisbane
Leadership

Japan's LDP, Ishin agree to form coalition government, Kyodo says

The agreement sets the stage for Sanae Takaichi to become the country's first female prime minister. Takaichi favours revising Japan's pacifist post-war constitution to recognise the role of its expanding military.
3 minutes
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Air & Space Power

US Army reveals Typhon missile system in Japan

The United States Army showcased its Typhon mid-range missile system in Japan for the first time during Exercise Resolute Dragon, underscoring enhanced US—Japan deterrence efforts, amid rising Chinese assertiveness and regional security tensions.
2 minutes
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Military History

Thailand’s Wartime Alliance With Japan – and What It Means Today

Thailand’s alliance with Japan during World War II was driven by both coercion and strategic opportunism, enabling Thailand to pursue territorial ambitions. The legacy of this alliance shapes contemporary defence cooperation between the nations.
7 minutes
5387
Air & Space Power

First Japanese F-35Bs to arrive in-country within days

Four F-35Bs will arrive at Nyutabaru Airbase this month (August). The four Short Take Off and Vertical Landing (STOVL) variant will be the first of 42 STOVL’s Japan has ordered, along with 105 F-35A aircraft.
3 minutes
5300
Air & Space Power

Japan starts deploying Osprey fleet at a new base with an eye on China

The first Japanese V-22 Ospreys arrived at their new home base of Camp Saga, in south-western Japan. The move is part of Japan’s military build-up, designed to deter China’s increasingly assertive maritime actions in the area.
2 minutes
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Military History

US, Japan mark 80 years since the end of the Battle of Okinawa

By the spring of 1945, Japan was on the retreat. In April that year, American troops landed on the beaches of Okinawa and claimed victory over Japan three months later—but at a cost.
5 minutes
5225
Commander Australian Fleet Rear Admiral Christopher Smith, AM, CSM, RAN, (left) exchanges gifts with Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Commander in Chief Vice Admiral Omachi Katsushi, during bilateral meetings held with foreign Navy dignitaries at Fleet Headquarters,
Strategic Influence

Japanese Mogami-class frigate docks in Darwin amid push for $10bn Australian defence contract

The visit highlights Japan’s growing campaign to build Australia’s next frigate over Germany. Japan is offering priority access, stealth and a crew efficient design. Frigates to be built partly in WA- decision by year’s end.
6 minutes
5265
Air & Space Power

Japan conducts first domestic missile test

The test-firing of the Type 88 surface-to-ship, short-range missile was the first time Japan had conducted a missile test on Japanese territory, as the country accelerates its military build-up to deter an increasingly assertive China.
2 minutes
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Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Indo-Pacific Four partners
Strategic Influence

Xi and Putin drive Japan and NATO closer together

Japan wants to learn more about Russian military tactics while links with Japan’s advanced defence industry could benefit NATO. Japanese public opinion supports stronger alliances. Japan considering constitutional changes for defence.
5 minutes
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Strategic Influence

Japan Appoints First Chief of New Joint Operations Command

Lt. Gen. Nagumo Kenichiro is the first head of Japan’s Joint Operations Command. The new Command aims to strengthen the effectiveness of joint operations among the three Self-Defence Forces, especially considering the complex security environment.
5 minutes
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Strategic Influence

The tiny Japanese island militarizing on Taiwan’s doorstep

Yonaguni Island is experiencing militarisation due to its proximity to Taiwan. The build-up includes radar sites, missile units, the Japanese Self-Defence Force's Camp Yonaguni, and expansion of the port and airport.
7 minutes
4910
Strategic Influence

Strategic and industrial factors favour Japan for Australia's frigate project

The author argues that choosing the Mogami design over the German Meko A-200 would strengthen interoperability between Australia and Japan. The acquisition would also deepen industrial cooperation and capability thus enhancing regional security and leveraging Japan's maritime expertise.
7 minutes
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Technology & Innovation

Japan, Australia to develop communication technologies for undersea RAS

Australia and Japan have signed a bilateral agreement to jointly develop robotics and autonomous systems (RAS) for undersea warfare.
4 minutes
Archived
3712
HMAS Anzac sails in company with Japanese Ships Samidare (right) and Izumo during Indo-Pacific Endeavour 2023.
Strategic Influence

The female marines Japan is training for war

Women form part of Japanese Self Defence Force (JSDF) Marine Unit Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade.
6 minutes
Archived
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Strategic Influence

Taigei-Class: Japan's New Attack Submarine Should Make China Worry

The world's first lithium-ion battery powered submarine is able to undertake faster and longer underwater missions.
12 minutes
Archived
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Strategic Influence

Japan’s New Cabinet Has a Record Number of Women. So What?

Japan’s recently reshuffled parliament has 5 women out of 19 ministers; however this has not represented an overall improvement in women’s positions within the Government.
5 minutes
Archived
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Technology & Innovation

Watch a Japanese research ship fire an electromagnetic railgun

The railgun is framed specifically as a protective measure. It is designed to stop incoming attacks via air or sea, by firing high-speed bullets.
6 minutes
Archived
3165
Wellbeing

Behavior Science Explains Why the Japanese Practice of Kaizen, or Continuous Improvement, Will Accelerate Your Success

Kaizen is widely associated with Toyota, which made the practice famous in its factories. The term literally translates as ‘good change’, and the general concept dates all the way back to ancient Rome.
7 minutes
Archived
2556
Military History

In 1945, a Japanese Balloon Bomb Killed Six Americans, Five of Them Children, in Oregon

During WW2, the Japanese released 9,000 balloons, each carrying a bomb—1,000 balloons reached the USA—apart from the party from Oregon, there were no other casualties.
15 minutes
Archived
2365
Military History

Milne Bay Breaking the Japanese Spell, 1942

Milne Bay is located on the easternmost tip of mainland PNG. During WW2, it was of significant strategic value as Japan would first have to capture Milne Bay to gain air superiority over the sea approaches to Port Moresby.
14 minutes
Archived
1977
Strategic Influence

Japan's strict gun laws make shootings rare

Japan has one of the world's lowest gun crime rates due to its strict laws on gun ownership—the assassination of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe using a homemade gun has horrified the Japanese public.
4 minutes
Archived
1754
The Japanese flag flies from the flight deck of JDS Makinami as the warship makes ready to depart Fleet Base East on completion of the Royal Australian Navy’s International Fleet Review 2013.
Military History

Russo-Japanese War

In the Russo-Japanese War of 1904-1905, Japan defeated Russia paving the way for its expansion into Korea and Chinese Manchuria.
-15 minutes
Archived
1544
An 11 Squadron AP-3C Orion joins its Japanese counterpart in a flypast of two Japanese military ships. TITLE: Goodwill visit to Japan by 11 Squadron
Strategic Influence

Deeper Australia–Japan defence ties send strong message to China

Australia and Japan have both agreed on the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA); the RAA is more important than it seems as it indicates that both Japan and Australia share a common strategic outlook.
12 minutes
Archived
1538
HMAS Sydney sails past some Japanese submarines as they arrive in Yokosuka, Japan. Sydney will represent Australia at the Japanese International Fleet Review on October 14, 2012.
Strategic Influence

Second-hand Japanese boats could rapidly expand Australia’s submarine force

This Dec 21 ASPI article argues that because it might take until 2040 before Australia acquires nuclear submarines, buying second-hand Japanese submarines might be worth exploring as an interim step.
12 minutes
Archived
1521
Royal Australian Air Force loadmaster Corporal Jakeb Thorogood looks out over the C-17J Spartan aircraft ramp during a maritime surveillance flight over Palau’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) in support of the Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency during Operation Solania.
Strategic Influence

New undersea internet cable for Nauru, Kiribati and the Federated States of Micronesia will be funded by Australia, the US and Japan

Undersea cables are vulnerable to being tapped; therefore, Australia, Japan and the US are working together to maintain control over new undersea Pacific cables.
5 minutes
Archived
1488
Coordinator Rescue Forces, Commander Chris Unwin, RAN and Rescue Element Coordinator, Lieutenant Commander Guy Burton talk about the Communications Station on the bridge of MV Stoker with Lieutenant Commander Nguyen Thanh Tung from the Vietnam People’s Navy (left), Commander Shahrul Adi Nor Basha ( centre right) and Lieutenant Commander Salsabil Paujah Ismail from the Royal Malaysian Navy during Exercise Black Carillon 21
Cyber

Japan, Vietnam Look to Cyber Defense Against China

Japan and Vietnam are working together to ensure they are prepared to counter the growing number of cyberattacks; many of these attacks appear to originate from China.
5 minutes
Archived
1413
The memorial dawn service at Anzac Park in Townsville to mark the 75th Anniversary of the Battle of the Coral Sea (4-8 May 1942)
Military History

Groupthink Blinded Imperial Japan at the Battle of Midway

The USA defeated the Japanese Navy at the Battle of Midway because of poor Japanese planning, groupthink, and the failure of the Japanese to allow any criticism of their flawed operational plan.
14 minutes
Archived
1378
Royal Australian Air Force F-111 A8-21 flies over Gurney Airfield in Papua New Guinea during commemoration of the 1942 Battle of Milne Bay.
Military History

Holding New Guinea: A First Defeat For Japan’s Land Forces.

The Battle of Milne Bay PNG was a significant confidence booster for the WW2 Allies as it showed that Australia could beat the Japanese invaders.
35 minutes
Archived
1365
Official 2+2 discussions between The Honourable Julie Bishop, Minister for Foreign Affairs and Senator the Honourable Marise Payne with Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, Mr Fumio Kishida and the Minister for Defence, Mr Gen Nakatani in Sydney.
Strategic Influence

How will the Australia- Japan relationship fare under Prime Minister Fumio Kishida?

This ASPI article argues that the strong Australia –Japan relationship is likely to continue under new Prime Minister Fumio Kishida.
8 minutes
Archived
1288
Australian Army officer Lieutenant Colonel Richard Niessl from 6th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment hands a gift to Japanese Ground Self Defence Force Colonel Kagami Mori at Shoalwater Bay training area, Queensland, as part of Exercise Southern Jackaroo 2022.
Strategic Influence

Why Australia matters more than ever for Japan

Australia's relationship with Japan has grown from one based on trade to one where mutual military cooperation is vital for the region's security.
8 minutes
Archived
951
A Supermarine Spitfire fighter aircraft on display at the Temora Aviation Museum, New South Wales, during an event marking the 60th anniversary of the Spitfire Association.
Air & Space Power

Japan and UK move towards partnership to develop combat-aircraft systems

Japan and the UK are forming a unique partnership to develop their combat fighter aircraft—a partnership which may have important lessons for Australia’s aircraft procurement programs.
19 minutes
Archived
909
No. 75 Squadron's Commemorative Aircraft F/A-18A A21-018 arrives in RAAF Base Townsville and put to bed after her first flight adorning her new colours.
Air & Space Power

Japan going ahead with ‘Godzilla’ fighter jet

Japan is planning to build its own fighter the F-X as an eventual replacement for the F-35.
10 minutes
Archived
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Military aircraft launch into the night skies from RAAF Base Tindal part of Exercise Pitch Black 2018.
Technology & Innovation

Japan's Fugaku supercomputer is tackling some of the world's biggest problems

The Japanese supercomputer the Fugaku—designed to deal with real-world problems such as climate change—is officially three times faster than any of its rivals.
10 minutes
Archived
842
Royal Australian Air Force aviator Leading Aircraftman Ronan Geoghgan (left) from No. 23 Squadron and a United States airman prepare to refuel a Japan Air Self-Defense Force (Koku-Jieitai) F-15J Eagle aircraft utilising a United States Air Force refuelling truck at Andersen Air Force Base, Guam
Strategic Influence

After Abe: Where to for Australia’s quasi-alliance with Japan?

Japan wants a closer relationship with Australia.
15 minutes
Archived