In a significant development regarding regional security, Japan has confirmed its participation in joint military exercises alongside U.S. Marines and Australian forces in northern Australia. This announcement was made on a Sunday by the defense ministers from the three nations, who shared their growing concerns over recent aggressive military actions by China.

The discussions took place in Darwin, where Australia’s Acting Prime Minister Richard Marles held meetings with U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Japan’s Defense Minister Nakatani Gen. During these talks, it was revealed that trilateral amphibious training exercises, starting with Exercise Talisman Sabre, will be conducted in northern Australia beginning in 2025. Additionally, Australia is set to participate in Exercise Orient Shield in Japan for the first time next year.

In a joint statement, the defense ministers expressed “serious concern” regarding the destabilizing activities occurring in the East and South China Seas. They specifically pointed out the “dangerous conduct” exhibited by the Chinese military towards vessels from the Philippines and other regional nations. Notably, China asserts extensive territorial claims over almost the entire South China Sea.

Furthermore, the ministers emphasized the importance of maintaining peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait, where China’s military presence has increased. China regards self-governing Taiwan as part of its territory and has ramped up military drills in the vicinity, prompting heightened security anxieties.

Marles, who also holds the position of defense minister, reflected on discussions with his Japanese counterpart in September regarding the potential for enhanced collaboration between their military forces. He noted that involving Japan in joint training during the U.S. Marine rotations in Australia presented a clear “obvious opportunity.”

Marles remarked on the prospects of greater training activities among Japan, the U.S., and Australia, describing it as an exciting opportunity for improved military coordination. When asked about the potential backlash from Beijing over this expanded military cooperation, he clarified that the intent was to foster robust partnerships with allies and like-minded nations, prioritizing relationships with friends in the region.