In a significant stride towards enhancing defense collaborations, Japan and the United Kingdom have declared a “new golden age” in security cooperation. This announcement comes as the defense ministers of both nations convened in Tokyo for a bilateral Defence Ministerial Meeting, where they reaffirmed their partnership and explored vital areas such as cyber security, space, and other defense domains.
The meeting marked a continuation of efforts to strengthen ties between the two countries, especially amid a climate where security concerns in the Indo-Pacific and Euro-Atlantic regions are becoming increasingly interconnected. British defense minister John Healey and Japanese counterpart Gen Nakatani discussed various initiatives and cooperation frameworks aimed at bolstering their respective defenses.
Further emphasizing the depth of this cooperation, the discussions transitioned to a two-day Pacific Future Forum summit aboard the HMS Prince of Wales, the flagship of the Royal Navy, which docked at the Tokyo International Cruise Terminal as part of its Operation Highmast. This is the first instance of a foreign aircraft carrier making a port of call in Tokyo Bay, marking a symbolic milestone in maritime cooperation.
During this visit, British F-35 jets made their inaugural landings on Japan’s helicopter carrier, the JS Kaga, demonstrating the operational collaboration between the British and Japanese navies. Additionally, Japanese destroyers provided protective escort for British naval vessels, showcasing an unprecedented level of partnership on the high seas.
Highlighting airpower collaboration, defense ministers from both nations underscored their commitment to develop a sixth-generation fighter jet by 2035, as part of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) — a trilateral initiative that includes Italy. A significant component of this endeavor is the Edgewing joint venture, established in June as a cornerstone for future air combat capabilities.
The ministers also discussed the planned deployment of Japan Air Self-Defense Force F-15 fighter jets to Europe and the UK, although specifics regarding timing and numbers remain undisclosed. This initiative reflects deepening military ties and a shared commitment to security in the region.
In their discussions, London and Tokyo reiterated their commitment to maintaining secure and stable conditions in space, ensuring that advancements in modern warfare are managed responsibly. Progress in the Japan-UK Cyber Partnership was also highlighted, particularly with joint exercises like Defence Cyber Marvel, which will see Royal Navy cyber operations specialists collaborating with the Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force for the first time in 2024.
Tokyo’s participation in Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025, alongside AUKUS members, further solidifies this robust framework of cooperation, focusing on maritime autonomous systems and technology sharing under the trilateral security pact in the Indo-Pacific.
As the UK defense secretary remarked, the strategic partnerships being forged now are crucial for preparedness in times of crisis, not only for the allied nations but also as a deterrent to potential adversaries. This comprehensive approach to defense cooperation not only signifies a significant shift in military strategy but also positions Japan and the UK as pivotal allies in their respective regions.
