Japan to deploy F-35 and F-15 Fighters in Australia amid rising tensions with China.

Japan is reportedly preparing to deploy fighter jets in Australia on a rotational basis starting in the upcoming fiscal year to conduct joint exercises aimed at strengthening defense capabilities in the face of escalating tensions with China, according to a report by Ashish Dangwal in EurAsian Times.

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To address potential challenges with rotational deployment, Japan's Air Self-Defense Force (ASDF) dispatched F-35A stealth fighter jets to Australia in August and September, marking a significant milestone (Picture source: Japanese MoD)

This move is part of collaborative exercises to enhance defense capabilities amidst rising tensions with China. The plan involves deploying various fighter aircraft, including the F-35, F-15, and F-2, for several months each year. A designated Air Self-Defense Force fighter unit will be stationed at an Australian air base during these rotations, with a focus on joint exercises conducted within the framework of Japan's exercise of collective self-defense.

This rotational deployment strategy is grounded in the Law for Establishment of the Defense Ministry's Article 4, which outlines the Self-Defense Forces' educational and training responsibilities. It was introduced as part of Japan's National Defense Strategy, signifying a significant shift in Japan's defense approach, with a focus on strategic joint exercises.

Japan's ability to engage in collective self-defense was expanded in 2015 through national security legislation, allowing the country to partially exercise this right when a neighboring country faces a threat that directly endangers Japan's security. This includes scenarios such as protecting US naval vessels engaged in missile defense on the Korean Peninsula and clearing mines in the Middle East's Strait of Hormuz.

In response to China's military expansion, Japan and Australia have strengthened their security cooperation, highlighted by the signing of a Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) in January 2022. This agreement streamlines entry procedures for joint exercises and demonstrates a commitment to mutual defense. Defense ministers from both nations further emphasized the RAA's use in establishing a history of joint training.

To address potential challenges with rotational deployment, Japan's Air Self-Defense Force (ASDF) dispatched F-35A stealth fighter jets to Australia in August and September, marking a significant milestone. The move towards rotational deployment is driven by concerns over China's maritime presence and the gradual assumption of responsibilities traditionally held by the US military, potentially increasing Japan's involvement in armed conflicts.

The collaborative effort aims to strengthen Japan's integration with Australian and US forces, enhancing the capabilities of the Self-Defense Forces (SDF) and fostering a more robust response to regional security challenges. It underscores the growing partnership between Japan and Australia in the face of evolving security dynamics in the Asia-Pacific region.