Canberra (TDI): Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles is visiting Japan, starting Saturday, for defense discussions with his Japanese counterpart, Shinjiro Koizumi.
The aim is to advance bilateral defense cooperation as both allies will navigate escalating tensions within the Asia Pacific.
The Australian government, in a statement released on Friday, indicated its intention to engage with the administration of the newly appointed Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi.
Canberra highlighted a shared vision for the region, particularly as global challenges continue to rise.
Marles emphasized the strength of the relationship, stating, “Our relationship with Japan continues to grow from strength to strength underpinned by close strategic alignment, mutual ambition and enormous potential.”
During a media briefing, Koizumi affirmed the goal of the talks, noting that “We plan to share the understanding of the regional situation between the two countries and hold concrete discussions for further progress in Japan-Australia defense cooperation.”
The visit follows a significant defense sourcing agreement made in August. The Australian government is giving a contract to the Japanese company Mitsubishi Heavy Industries for the construction of 11 Mogami-class frigates.
This acquisition is intended to substantially enhance the Royal Australian Navy fleet and is reported to be valued at approximately $10 billion (Australian dollars).
This contrast marks a pivotal moment for Japan, representing the largest defense export it has undertaken since it relaxed its military export ban in 2014.
The initial three frigates will be built in Japan, with the first delivery to Australia anticipated in 2029 and the vessel expected to be operational by 2030. Reports suggest that the remaining eight vessels will be constructed in Western Australia.
Koizumi mentioned that Marles will visit the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries shipyard in Nagasaki, located in southern Japan.
The Australian military plans to deploy these advanced vessels to safeguard critical maritime trade routes and strengthen its defensive positions across its northern approaches in the Indian and Pacific Ocean areas, where China continues its military expansion.
