Is Japan joining forces with trilateral security pact AUKUS?.

According to information published by Nikkei Asia on March 2, 2024, the United States is actively engaging in discussions with the United Kingdom and Australia about the possibility of Japan joining the AUKUS security partnership to collaborate on defense technology.
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Conference between Biden, Albanese and Sunak about the AUKUS in 2023. (Picture source: US DoD)

The focus of the partnership with Japan is anticipated to be on Pillar 2 of AUKUS, which emphasizes the development of advanced warfighting capabilities, including artificial intelligence, undersea drones, and hypersonic technologies, distinct from Pillar 1's objective of aiding Australia in acquiring nuclear-powered submarines.

AUKUS

Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States have unveiled a landmark trilateral security partnership, AUKUS, aimed at bolstering defense capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region.

Announced on September 15, 2021, the initiative marks a significant pivot towards military collaboration, including the development of nuclear-powered submarines for Australia.

This partnership extends beyond conventional military cooperation, embracing cutting-edge advancements in cyber technology, artificial intelligence, quantum computing, undersea capabilities, and hypersonic weaponry.

The creation of AUKUS reflects the strategic importance of the Indo-Pacific, emphasizing the need for rapid and focused action in the face of evolving technological and geopolitical landscapes.

U.S. Ambassador to Australia, Caroline Kennedy, highlighted the partnership's role in providing substantial deterrence in the region, amidst concerns over China's growing assertiveness as a global power. Conversely, China criticized the alliance, claiming it could destabilize regional peace and accusing it of harboring a Cold War mentality.

The partnership also led to the abrupt cancellation of a significant submarine deal between France and Australia, causing a diplomatic rift. France responded by recalling its ambassadors from Australia and the U.S., denouncing the move as a betrayal. However, the relationship has seen attempts at mending, with the new Australian government agreeing to a substantial settlement with the French Naval Group and expressing intentions to rejuvenate bilateral ties with France.

AUKUS aims to foster joint military capabilities and interoperability among the three nations, focusing initially on enhancing cyber capabilities and exploring quantum technologies among other areas.

Additionally, the partnership has embarked on initiatives such as the development of hypersonic missiles and the establishment of the Deep Space Advanced Radar Capability (DARC) program.