The United States is championing Japan’s potential entry into the Aukus security pact, a move analysts describe as a strategic necessity to leverage Tokyo’s cutting-edge defence technology and fortify Western alliances in the Indo-Pacific. According to an unpublished US State Department report obtained by Bloomberg, Washington has given Japan’s participation a “positive assessment,” signalling a potential expansion of the trilateral alliance formed in 2021 between the US, Britain, and Australia.
The Aukus pact is structured around two pillars. Pillar One focuses on Australia’s acquisition of nuclear-powered attack submarines and the deployment of US and British nuclear submarines in Australia. Pillar Two, however, is where Japan’s expertise could prove most valuable. This pillar encompasses collaboration in undersea capabilities, quantum technologies, artificial intelligence and autonomy, advanced cyber, hypersonic and counter-hypersonic capabilities, and electronic warfare.
Japan’s interest in Pillar Two projects suggests a recognition of the limitations of going it alone in defence innovation. “Assuming this report is accurate, I would think this is a logical next step and, if anything, the surprise is that it has actually taken so long,” said Robert R. Eldridge, founder and president of The Eldridge Think Tank and a director of the Hawaii-based Global Risk Mitigation Foundation. “I think it is also very likely that Japan looks at it the same way, that no country can have all the technology and insight to allow it to do everything on its own.”
Eldridge highlighted the clear advantages for Tokyo, including enhanced interoperability of systems, reduced co-development costs, and potential sales of new defence systems. Japan’s participation would not only strengthen Aukus but also reinforce the broader US-led security architecture in the Indo-Pacific, particularly as China continues to assert its military dominance in the region.
The move underscores a broader trend in defence cooperation, where nations are increasingly pooling resources and expertise to address complex security challenges. For Japan, joining Aukus would mark a significant step in its defence modernisation efforts, particularly as it seeks to counterbalance China’s growing military influence. The alliance would also provide Japan with access to advanced US and British technologies, further elevating its defence capabilities.
As the Indo-Pacific becomes an increasingly contested region, the integration of Japan into Aukus could redefine the strategic landscape. The pact’s expansion would not only deepen military ties among its members but also send a clear message to potential adversaries about the strength of Western alliances. For Japan, this is an opportunity to play a more central role in shaping the future of regional security.