Indo-Pacific Nations Deepen Defence Ties as 54-Year Pact and Japan Arms Push Gain Momentum
Updated
Updated · Reuters · May 31
Indo-Pacific Nations Deepen Defence Ties as 54-Year Pact and Japan Arms Push Gain Momentum
4 articles · Updated · Reuters · May 31
Regional defence chiefs at the Shangri-La Dialogue said Indo-Pacific countries are accelerating military cooperation and rearmament beyond the traditional U.S. security umbrella.
China's rapid military rise and doubts about Washington's attention—despite U.S. assurances it can handle the region and Iran at once—are driving partners to build more self-reliant deterrence networks.
Japan is positioning itself as a regional hub after April eased decades-old export curbs, while the Philippines is expanding ties with Japan, Australia, Canada and New Zealand.
Canada said it is increasing regional deployments and exercises, and New Zealand is considering Japanese and British replacements for its ageing frigates while exploring a more intense role in the 54-year-old Five Power Defence Arrangements.
Even as countries hedge with tighter regional links, officials from Japan, the Philippines and Australia said U.S. commitment to the Indo-Pacific remains intact.
As new defense pacts form, is the era of U.S. dominance in the Indo-Pacific ending?
Can new regional alliances deter China, or are they fueling a dangerous and costly arms race?
Will AUKUS's new underwater drones become the key to controlling the South China Sea's contested waters?
Japan’s 2026 Defense Revolution: From Pacifism to Regional Power—Arms Exports, Indo-Pacific Alliances, and Strategic Risks
Overview
In May 2026, Japan made a historic shift by revising its arms export policy, breaking from its postwar pacifist stance and allowing the overseas sale of weapons. This major policy change, approved by the Cabinet and National Security Council, marks a significant departure from Japan’s traditional identity as a peace-loving nation. Building on this, Japan signed a comprehensive defense cooperation agreement with Indonesia, focusing on joint military exercises, maritime security, and technology transfer. These moves signal Japan’s intent to play a more active role in regional security, while maintaining strict controls on lethal weapon sales to trusted partners.