US defense chief observes drills with Japan, Australia, says he’s confident about greater capability
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has expressed confidence in the improved military capabilities of the United States, Australia and Japan as he observed joint exercises that showcased their closer cooperation as tensions rise in the region.
CAMP ASAKA, Japan — CAMP ASAKA, Japan (AP) — US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin expressed confidence in the improved military capabilities of the United States, Australia and Japan as he observed joint exercises Wednesday showcasing their closer cooperation as tensions rise in the region.
Austin is in Japan to reaffirm the importance of their alliance and Washington’s commitment to regional security.
Observing the trilateral Yama Sakura 87 exercises held at the Japanese Army Camp Asaka on the outskirts of Tokyo, Austin noted that the necessary equipment, ammunition and people are in place and that “these are the things that will guarantee success if we ever are challenged on the battlefield.”
Japan, with a security strategy introduced in 2022, is pursuing a rapid military build-up to enhance its deterrence against growing threats from China, North Korea and Russia, and has strengthened defense cooperation, especially with the United States and Australia.
On Tuesday, during talks with Japanese officials, Austin praised the strength of the Japan-U.S. alliance at a time of rapid global political change, including unrest around the world. South Korea And Syria.
He emphasized that U.S. cooperation with Tokyo and Seoul is crucial to regional stability.
The scenario-based command post exercises began last Friday and are being combined with the U.S. Army’s Warfighter Command Post Exercise for the first time, making it the largest since they began in 1982, according to the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command.
According to the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, more than 7,000 military personnel from the three countries are participating at multiple locations, including Camp Kengun in southwestern Japan, to simulate operations on remote islands and cross-domain operations, including space and cyber defense. The exercises end on Saturday.
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Yamaguchi reported from Tokyo.