Enhancing U.S.-Japan Defense Industrial Cooperation To Counter China

 

Japan has historically maintained strict restrictions on defense spending and arms exports. These limitations, alongside its "exclusive self-defense" (senshu bouei) policies, have hindered the development of a competitive and robust defense industrial base. However, Japan's 2022 National Defense Strategy emphasized the need to strengthen this sector, prompting the government to gradually relax restrictions on defense equipment exports to create more opportunities for international cooperation.

Focus on Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS)

A key area of interest for Japan is the development of uncrewed aerial systems (UAS). The Ministry of Defense has announced plans to invest JPY 1 trillion (approximately USD 7.1 billion) over the next five years in UAS development. This aligns with similar initiatives by the U.S. Department of Defense, such as the Replicator initiative and the Air Force’s Collaborative Combat Aircraft program. Beyond military platforms, Japan’s advanced electronics industry, particularly in subcomponents like electro-optical sensors, presents significant potential for U.S.-Japan co-development and co-production efforts. Despite ongoing governmental, industrial, and economic challenges, these sectors offer promising avenues for collaboration.

Addressing the Challenges of Defense Industrial Cooperation

Defense industrial cooperation is crucial for bolstering the U.S.-Japan alliance. According to Moyuru Tanaka, a visiting fellow with the CSIS Japan Chair, the shipbuilding industry holds substantial potential for collaboration to enhance military readiness and support Japan’s defense industrial base.

Security Challenges in the Indo-Pacific Region

The Indo-Pacific region, a key driver of the global economy and home to over half of the world’s population, faces numerous security challenges. These include large military forces, nuclear capabilities, and diverse political and economic systems that do not always align with universal values. Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has highlighted how easily the rules governing the international order can be breached, raising concerns about the potential for similar crises in the Indo-Pacific.

Building a Resilient Defense Base

To address these challenges, Japan must develop a mutually beneficial strategic relationship with the United States and other allies and partners. Cooperation will be essential in building a strong and resilient defense industrial base, including in the shipbuilding sector, to ensure military readiness and support a free and open Indo-Pacific.