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Japan and Mongolia Forge Historic Defense Pact Under Third Neighbor Strategy.
On December 18, 2024, Japan and Mongolia formalized a historic agreement enabling the transfer of defense equipment and technology between the two nations. The accord was signed by Japan's Ambassador to Ulaanbaatar, Masaru Ogasawara, and Mongolia's Minister of Defense, Sandagiin Byambatsogt, highlighting both countries' commitment to strengthening defense cooperation. Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs clarified that the agreement would facilitate joint defense projects aimed at promoting international peace and stability while ensuring strict controls to prevent misuse or unauthorized transfer to third parties.
Mitsubishi Electric FPS-3 radar (Picture source: Wikimedia)
The agreement, signed on December 18, 2024, is expected to include the transfer of several advanced defense systems tailored to Mongolia’s strategic needs. Among these could be three-dimensional surveillance radars, akin to the modernized FPS-3 radar, which provides precise detection of ground and aerial targets. Similar systems have been provided by Japan to partners like the Philippines (under a 2016 agreement) and Vietnam (2021) and would be particularly effective for monitoring Mongolia’s extensive borders with Russia and China.
Reconnaissance drones equipped with optical and infrared sensors may also be part of the deal. Platforms like the Yamaha RMAX drone, used for tactical missions, would be well-suited for surveillance of remote or hard-to-access border areas. In 2019, Japan supplied similar systems to Indonesia under its maritime defense capacity-building program, showcasing its expertise in this domain.
The agreement might further include secure communication systems and command and control (C2) solutions similar to those provided to India after their 2015 accord. These technologies, critical for efficient military coordination, would enhance Mongolia's ability to address local threats while fostering interoperability with regional partners. Additionally, cybersecurity tools, like those shared with Singapore in 2018, could be included to safeguard Mongolia’s critical military infrastructure from potential cyberattacks.
Specialized military vehicles, such as the Toyota Mega Cruiser, renowned for their mobility and durability in challenging environments, could also be part of the package. Japan shared such equipment with the Philippines in 2020 to improve rapid response capabilities. Through this agreement with Mongolia, Japan continues to leverage its regional defense strategy, strengthening bilateral alliances since it relaxed its restrictions on military equipment exports in 2014. The agreement is set to take effect in 2025, accompanied by training and maintenance programs to ensure the operational readiness of Mongolia’s armed forces.
Military relations between Japan and Mongolia have intensified in recent years, reflecting a shared desire to enhance cooperation in defense and security. This trend aligns with Mongolia’s "third neighbor" strategy, aimed at diversifying partnerships beyond its two major neighbors, Russia and China.
Furthermore, Mongolia has been actively participating in NATO partnership programs since 2012, particularly through the Defense Education Enhancement Program (DEEP), which aims to modernize Mongolia’s military training system and improve interoperability with allied forces.
Mongolia’s armed forces consist of approximately 10,000 active-duty personnel and 137,000 reservists, primarily organized into land forces with a limited air force component. The country allocates about 1.4% of its GDP to defense. Since the 2000s, Mongolia has actively contributed to international peacekeeping missions, including operations in Afghanistan, Kosovo, and Africa, bolstering its international presence and commitment to global security.