As Australia seeks to develop nuclear submarines under AUKUS “Pillar 1”, using technology from the United States and the United Kingdom, speculation continues to arise regarding Japan’s eventual participation in AUKUS “Pillar 2”. This pillar acts as a mechanism for sharing advanced defense technologies, covering areas such as quantum technology, hypersonic missiles and artificial intelligence.
Although an official announcement date has not been set, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida is expected to meet US President Joe Biden in Washington next week, followed by a trilateral summit with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.
US officials have stated that they would seriously consider including Japan as a technology partner in the security partnership. US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell has indicated that an announcement regarding Japan’s collaboration with AUKUS is imminent.
How can Japan collaborate in AUKUS?
While it is unclear what Japan’s collaboration with AUKUS will look like, it is stated that the collaboration could include areas such as advanced robotics, cyber security and anti-submarine warfare. Although Japan will collaborate on certain defense technology projects with AUKUS member countries, it has not been confirmed whether Japan will join as a full member.
Although Australia has expressed its openness to cooperation with Japan under AUKUS, the Defense Minister believes that it may take some time before other countries join this partnership as they focus on developing innovative new technologies. The UK has also signaled its willingness for other countries to join Pillar 2 of AUKUS, stressing that the agreement is not intended to be exclusive and that countries such as Japan, New Zealand and Canada could play a role in the future.
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