U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, during his visit to Tokyo on Sunday, highlighted Japan’s vital role in countering the rising influence of China in the region. He also revealed plans to transform the U.S. military command in Japan into a “war-fighting headquarters.” This step marks a significant move in strengthening the alliance and military capabilities of the two nations amid increasing tensions.
On his first official trip to Asia, with Japan being his second stop, Hegseth emphasized the importance of both countries working together to boost their military strength. He pinpointed China’s assertive military maneuvers and the potential threat to Taiwan as core issues requiring immediate attention. “Japan is our indispensable partner in deterring Communist Chinese military aggression,” he remarked during discussions with Japanese Defense Minister Gen Nakatani. Hegseth assured that the U.S. is swiftly acting to restore and bolster deterrence in the region and globally.
Concerns emerged in Japan about potential shifts in U.S. regional involvement under President Donald Trump’s “America First” policy. Additionally, Trump’s tariffs threats added to these anxieties, Japanese defense officials indicated anonymously, adhering to protocol. Consequently, the two nations agreed to fast-track their joint development and production of missile technology, including Advanced Medium-Range Air to Air Missiles (MRAAM) and potentially SM-6 surface-to-air missiles, addressing ammunition shortfalls. Furthermore, the maintenance of U.S. warships and aircraft stationed in Japan is set to expedite, enhancing both sides’ defense sectors.
A significant development occurred in July under the Biden administration, where Japan and the U.S. agreed to upgrade the command structure overseeing Japanese military and U.S. forces stationed in Japan. Over 50,000 U.S. troops are currently based there, and these changes seek to amplify joint operational and response readiness. Recently, the Japan Joint Operations Command (JJOC) came into operation to orchestrate the activities of Japanese Ground, Maritime, and Air Self-Defense Forces, thereby improving operational synergy with the U.S.
As part of this initiative, Hegseth announced the evolution of U.S. Forces Japan into a new command structure with a unified operational head, designed to function as a joint force headquarters. This restructuring is anticipated to expedite and optimize the coordination of troop activities between the two allies. Hegseth stated the reorganization is essential for preparedness in potential conflicts, emphasizing that while peace is the ultimate goal, readiness is imperative.
Japanese defense representatives expressed that no significant changes in their duties or an increase in U.S. troop presence is anticipated. In a joint press conference, Hegseth and Nakatani acknowledged the necessity of enhancing Japan’s defense capabilities particularly in the Southwestern islands. These areas, strategically significant due to their location near disputed territories in the East China Sea and close proximity to Taiwan, are crucial for maintaining stability and deterring Chinese advancements.
The Indo-Pacific region, particularly the Taiwan Strait, is critical for establishing a sustainable and robust deterrent force, Hegseth insisted, noting Japan’s frontline position in any potential western Pacific upheaval. China’s claim over Taiwan as its territory has prompted the U.S. to arm Taiwan sufficiently under a 1979 mandate, a policy that consistently draws criticism from Beijing.
During his trip, Hegseth took part in the U.S.-Japan joint memorial service, commemorating war casualties from the Battle of Iwo Jima on its 80th anniversary. He praised the enduring alliance between the two former adversaries.
Before arriving in Japan, Hegseth visited the Philippines to reaffirm Trump’s dedication to strengthening relations with Manila, a nation contending with maritime disputes with China.