U.S.-Japan Alliance

The remainder of 2020 is shaping up to be an unexpectedly consequential year for U.S.-Japan defense cooperation.

Recent decisions suggest Tokyo is fundamentally reconsidering how it engages with Washington on arms procurement.

China’s gray zone tactics around the Senkaku Islands are even more dangerous than similar moves in the South China Sea. How is Japan responding?  

Managing risks and fortifying national security is critical while doing business with China. 

The outbreak at U.S. Marine Corps facilities has raised concerns on the island.

Japan’s Defense Ministry announced it would drop plans to deploy the Aegis Ashore system, citing safety concerns.

To combat China's space ambitions, Japan and the U.S. need a coordinated, regional approach.

Pushing for vastly increased contributions when Japan and South face looming recessions amid an ongoing pandemic will not serve U.S. interests.

With both militaries having to fight the pandemic alongside their existing operations, how can the U.S. and Japan keep deterrence robust?

With Japan, the administration stands to damage relations at precisely the wrong time.

U.S. Forces Japan takes precautions as COVID-19 spreads in Japan.

The alliance faces several challenges in any joint response to a major cyberattack.