Japan and Australia Expand Defense Cooperation to Include Hypersonic Missile Tests

Japan and Australia have reached an agreement allowing Japan to test hypersonic missiles and other missile capabilities on Australian testing grounds over the next decade. The deal was finalized in Canberra by Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Richard Marles. The two nations also agreed to jointly develop a laser system for land and coastal combat platforms called Boobook, which will be manufactured by a Mitsubishi subsidiary in Sydney following a nearly 50 million dollar investment.

This agreement expands a 2023 bilateral pact that established the legal framework for the deployment and training of the Japan Self-Defense Forces in Australia. Minister Koizumi described the progress as a breakthrough for bilateral ties and the Japanese defense industry. Additionally, Australia is purchasing Japanese manufactured warships, though one source noted that challenges remain regarding the expansion of exports for new escort ships.

Outlets with a center-left lean framed the agreement as part of a broader reconfiguration of Asia-Pacific alliances and a response to China's growing military power. These sources also linked the pact to Japan's ongoing military rearmament and a shift in U.S. military exercises in the region. In contrast, center-leaning coverage focused on the technical breakthroughs and the strengthening of the bilateral defense industry.