Japan, Australia sign deal to promote defense technology cooperation

Good to see past enemies of WWII now allied in the face of the 21st century's dictatorships.

Yes, offensive deterrence, that's actually intended to be defensive and prevent war, far better if done together!

Nice to see two freedom-loving democracies strengthening their alliance.

It is imperative all democracies in the Asia-Pacific do their part in standing up to totalitarian, land-grabbing regimes in this, the most dangerous time in 80 years.

I can't think of any Japanese defense technology that Australia would want as there are better suppliers for every military technology Japan is interested in selling.

There is Australian technology that Japan would want, however, namely MQ-28 Loyal Wingman for JASDF's F-35 fleet.

It would be great for the region if Japan was able to sign full defense alliances with others in the region. The more interconnecting alliances the better for all concerned.

There is no doubt that Japan and Australia are being driven closer together and are cooperating closer due to concern in the region. Japan and South Korea are one again talking more like friends and committing to working closer together and closer with others.

Everyone in Asia Pacific seem to share the same concerns over China and North Korea, and are taking concrete steps to ensure they can keep trade lanes open and defense of sovereignty at the forefront of relations.

There is Australian technology that Japan would want, however, namely MQ-28 Loyal Wingman for JASDF's F-35 fleet.

Japan is not the only interested nation in Australia's AI force multiplying "Loyal Wingman".

If they can make it faster and longer range it will be a much more effective system.

I can't think of any Japanese defense technology that Australia would want as there are better suppliers for every military technology Japan is interested in selling.

Maybe you just cannot think? Japan's new Type 10 tank is considered to be the first 5th generation tank in the world with advanced metallurgy that reduces weight without sacrificing strength or protection. In fact the weight of armor is greater than that of the Leopard 2/Type 90 while the overall weight of the tank is quite a bit less. It also has a unique Japanese main gun and APFSDS round that is said to be superior to the Rhinemetal gun used in the Leopard 2 series and M-1A2 Abrams. It's fire control system is also the most advanced on any current tank.

Or how about the new Mogami class frigates? The most advanced frigate in the world. The Maya class DDGs are likewise among the most advanced of their type.

That’s pure nonsense. OK, they both surely have some nice things in development and store, but it’s not for defense, at best it’s a cooperation for more sales or market shares, if some African or Arabian riches and dictators open their walket to buy or modernize their arsenals. Why not suitable for defense? Well, just be a bit more honest and realistic. That whatever sophisticated hi-tech stuff will simply be outnumbered multiple times by a potential NK or Chinese attackers. And the other problem is that no one is left there anymore to handle it. The remaining few old white Aussie men? The fewer newly drawn JSDF men , now even allowed even with big tattoos? Please, I beg you, those all can’t even handle any civil AI or other machinery, so beware of telling that those few handfuls could ever operate your propagated wonder weapons, like fifth generation tanks, new frigates or MQ28 Loyal Wingman or anything else in a real defense theater situation. That’s all combined a defense concept which is in the best and most optimistic scenario only sufficient for the first 30 minutes, when adding good weather and luck goddess Fortuna’s mercy.