Olawale Abairel, Warrior Editorial Fellow
JAPAN May Contribute to the AUKUS Pact
Japan’s inclusion in the Pillar II AUKUS could bring significant benefits, given its high technological capabilities
The AUKUS pact, a trilateral security partnership between Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, has been a significant development in the Indo-Pacific region. This partnership, announced on 15 September 2021, involves the US and the UK assisting Australia in acquiring nuclear-powered submarines.
In a recent press briefing transcript, Deputy Press Secretary Sabrina Singh, was asked about Japan’s potential participation in AUKUS Pillar II. While she did not provide a definitive answer, she acknowledged saying; ….”Japan is among the oldest allies in the region. “
Japan, known for its advanced technology sectors, including robotics, quantum computing, and artificial intelligence, could significantly strengthen the AUKUS initiative, aimed at developing cutting-edge defense technologies.
Ofcourse, we all know that the Pillar II of AUKUS focuses on the development of advanced military technologies. Reports suggest that Japan’s participation in AUKUS Pillar II is under consideration. It will interest you to know that Japan’s inclusion in AUKUS Pillar II could lead to groundbreaking advancements in military technology.
Japan’s prowess in electronics, cyber capabilities, and non-conventional warfare technologies could provide AUKUS with a competitive edge, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. This collaboration could yield advancements in autonomous systems, cyber defense mechanisms, and quantum technologies, enhancing the operational capabilities of the AUKUS nations.
However, some argue that Japan’s lack of effective counter-espionage laws could be a stumbling block. Japan does have some laws dedicated to preventing espionage. But, the Economist Intelligence Unit suggests that Japan is likely to be the next country to strengthen its legal framework regarding commercial espionage, as it seeks to catch up with the regional trend. This could potentially address the concerns about Japan’s participation in AUKUS II.
Furthermore, the centerpiece of AUKUS, known as Pillar One, is the delivery of a nuclear-powered attack submarine capability to Australia. This is a historic agreement, marking the first time the United States has shared its sensitive nuclear-propulsion technology with an ally since the 1958 Mutual Defense Agreement with the United Kingdom.
When asked about the timeline for the delivery of the submarine to Australia, Deputy pentagon press secretary Singh referred to the Navy for more specifics. She emphasized the unwavering commitment to AUKUS.
However, concerns have been raised about potential delays in the delivery of the submarine to Australia. These concerns stcem from the administration’s recent reduction in the funding request for the submarine area.
Singh further highlighted the fiscal challenges facing the Pentagon, noting that they are well into fiscal year 2024 and still do not have a budget. She also mentioned that they are in the process of going through their F.Y. ’25 budget proposal to Congress, and they still do not have a supplemental passed by Congress.
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But, you must remember that the potential inclusion of Japan in AUKUS Pillar II could further enhance the partnership’s technological edge with the US military. While Japan’s current counter-espionage laws could potentially be a stumbling block to its participation in AUKUS II, there are indications that Japan is moving towards strengthening its legal framework in this area.
OLAWALE ABAIRE is a researcher, writer and analyst who has written many nonfiction books, He has master’s degree from Adekunle Ajasin University, Nigeria. He also works as a web content writer with the International Lean Six Sigma Institute, UK
