JAPAN US DEFENCE CAPABILITIES
India a key ally of US in rivalry with China: US ambassador to India
In an interview, US ambassador to India Eric Garcetti emphasised Washington's support for New Delhi's rise as a global power. He highlighted investments and partnerships to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific region amidst competition with China. Garcetti stressed the importance of international alliances to address interconnected challenges, including security threats, economic coercion, climate crisis, and governance issues. The US is collaborating with India to bolster defence capabilities and innovation through initiatives like Indus-X.
India's Rudram-1 Missile: How does it stack up against global competitors?
Rudram 1 Missile: India has successfully tested its first indigenous anti-radiation missile, the Rudram-1, developed by DRDO for the Indian Air Force. Integrated with Sukhoi-30MKI jets, it targets radiation sources with INS-GPS navigation and a Passive Homing Head, crucial for Suppression of Enemy Air Defence (SEAD). Compared globally, Rudram-1 enhances India's SEAD capabilities against adversaries like the US (AGM-88 HARM), Russia (Kh-58), UK (ALARM), China (FT-2000), Iran (Hormoz-2), and Brazil (MAR-1). This milestone strengthens India's defense against regional threats, showcasing its technological prowess and commitment to indigenous defense innovation.
North Korea says its recent missile tests involved new ballistic missile with 'super-large warhead'
North Korea announced Tuesday the successful test-firing of a new tactical ballistic missile, named Hwasongpho-11Da-4.5, capable of carrying a 4.5 ton-class "super-large warhead." The test aimed to verify flight stability and accuracy, with a range from 90 to 500 kilometers. South Korea reported two missiles launched, with differing flight paths: one reaching 600 kilometers and the other 120 kilometers. North Korea plans further tests in July. These developments follow heightened North Korean military activities since 2022, focusing on expanding its nuclear-capable arsenal amid regional tensions with the U.S., South Korea, and Japan.
North Korea test-launches 2 ballistic missiles, after end of new US-South Korea-Japan drill
North Korea test-fired two ballistic missiles on Monday, following a vow of "offensive and overwhelming" responses to recent US-South Korea-Japan military drills. The missiles were launched from Jangyon, with the first traveling 600 km and the second 120 km. The first missile landed in the waters off Chongjin, while the second likely crashed inland. The test comes amid heightened tensions, with North Korea condemning the "Freedom Edge" drill and asserting defensive measures against perceived threats from the trilateral alliance and regional pressures.
N. Korea condemns drills by US, Japan, S. Korea as 'Asian NATO'
North Korea denounced on Sunday joint military drills by South Korea, Japan and the United States, calling them an "Asian version of NATO" and warning of "fatal consequences". "The US-Japan-ROK relations have taken on the full-fledged appearance of an Asian-version NATO," it said, warning of "fatal consequences".
N. Korea condemns drills by US, Japan, S. Korea as 'Asian NATO'
North Korea has condemned joint military exercises involving South Korea, Japan, and the United States, likening them to an "Asian version of NATO" and warning of severe consequences. The drills, named "Freedom Edge," focused on ballistic missile defense, anti-submarine warfare, and cyber defense. Pyongyang, through its foreign ministry, criticized these exercises as provocative and accused the US, Japan, and South Korea of forming a military bloc against North Korea. The North has historically viewed such drills as preparations for invasion, amid ongoing tensions and cross-border provocations with South Korea.
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India expressed interest in co-production of Stryker combat vehicle: US
US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell emphasized the importance of frank dialogue with India regarding New Delhi's ties with Russia, particularly in the technology sector, including defense. Despite US concerns about potential technology leakage to Russia due to India's use of Russian defense equipment, Campbell expressed trust and confidence in India's capabilities. He noted that while there are disagreements, both countries maintain respectful discussions. Campbell also highlighted discussions on the Quad initiative during recent meetings between US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and India's NSA Ajit Doval, affirming strong commitment to hold the Quad summit by year-end.
US, Japan, South Korea vow strategic cooperation to boost security, economies
Commerce and trade ministers from the U.S., Japan, and South Korea agreed to cooperate on AI safety, export controls, clean energy, and semiconductor supply chains. U.S. Commerce Secretary Gina Raimondo emphasized the importance of collaboration for global security. Japanese Minister Ken Saito and South Korean Minister Ahn Duk-geun also attended the inaugural meeting, initiated at a Camp David summit. The ministers aim to strengthen supply chain resilience, particularly in semiconductors and critical minerals, and enhance cooperation in cybersecurity and technical standards to counter China's dominance in critical mineral supply chains.
B2B fashion platform Zyod raises $18 million in funding
Zyod's equity funding round was led by venture firm RTP Global, while the debt capital came from Stride Ventures, Trifecta Capital and Alteria Capital. In April last year, Zyod had raised $3.5 million in a funding round led by Lightspeed Venture.
US aircraft carrier arrives in South Korea for military drills, report says
The nuclear-powered U.S. aircraft carrier, Theodore Roosevelt, has arrived in South Korea's port city of Busan for joint military exercises with South Korea and Japan. This follows an agreement between the three nations, made at a Camp David summit in August 2023, to hold annual drills in response to China's actions in the South China Sea. Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent visit to North Korea included signing a mutual defence pact with Kim Jong Un, described by Kim as forming an "alliance." These developments underscore the complex dynamics in the region.
US Senators and corporate world bat for stronger India-US relationship
Senator Dan Sullivan said a lot of these countries are motivated by historical grievances. "I think this... new era, it's really a return to the era of authoritarian aggression, is going to be with us for years and decades to come," he said. One needs to deepen, broaden and make more concrete relationships in the different areas of QUAD, he said, referring to the grouping of the US, India, Japan and Australia.
New Zealand will increase its military contribution to N. Korea sanctions monitoring
New Zealand will enhance its contribution to North Korea sanctions monitoring based in Japan, Prime Minister Christopher Luxon announced on Tuesday. The government will deploy New Zealand Defence Force ships for the first time and increase aircraft deployments until September 2026. This decision underscores New Zealand's commitment to collective security in the Indo-Pacific region. Despite facing challenges like high attrition rates and aging equipment, New Zealand aims to boost military spending, with a new Defence Capability Report set for approval later this year, according to Defence Minister Judith Collins.
India-US advance talks on joint production of Stryker armoured combat vehicles
India and the US are in advanced negotiations to co-produce the latest generation of Stryker armoured infantry combat vehicles (ICVs). This three-phase project includes initial purchases, joint production in India, and co-development of future versions, supporting India's "Atmanirbhar Bharat" mission. Customization for Indian terrain, high-altitude areas, and significant technology transfer are key aspects. This collaboration, promoted by the US as part of their strategic defence partnership, aims to modernize India's mechanized infantry, replacing over 2,000 outdated BMP-II vehicles. The Stryker offers advanced capabilities, enhancing India's defence industry and military readiness.
Modi 3.0 takes aim: Blueprint to make the Indian armed forces future ready
India faces growing security challenges from China and Pakistan, prompting calls for a robust and integrated defence strategy. This includes bolstering nuclear deterrence, enhancing military capabilities, and pushing for systemic reforms in defence production and organization. The new government must prioritize these measures to ensure national security and strategic autonomy in the coming years.
Moving beyond Airbus & Boeing: What will it take for India to make its own commercial airliner?
India is already a growing sourcing hub for the global defence and aerospace industry. With government help, this ecosystem can, in time, be developed to support the development of a commercial plane. That is how we made our space programme, experts point out.
Former Trump defence official warns against Chinese surprise attack on Taiwan
Former US President Donald Trump's administration official Elbridge Colby has served as deputy assistant secretary of defence for strategy and force development in 2017-2018. In an interview with Japan's Yomiuri Shimbun conducted in Washington DC, Colby said that the military needed to be strengthened so it could deliver any immediate response against Chinese aggression.
Japan, US, South Korean coast guards hold 1st joint drill off Japan's coast as China concerns rise
Japanese, US, and South Korean coast guard vessels conducted their first joint drill off Japan's coast, aimed at strengthening maritime ties in response to China's increased assertiveness in territorial claims. The drill, which involved patrol vessels and helicopters, focused on search and rescue operations. The countries agreed last August to enhance security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. Japan has bolstered defenses in southwestern Japan in response to Chinese assertiveness, particularly around Taiwan.
US, South Korea conduct joint bombing drills
The United States flew a B-1B bomber over the Korean Peninsula for the first joint bombing drills with South Korea in seven years, amidst heightened tensions from North Korea's provocations. The US bomber, escorted by South Korean F-15K jets, dropped Joint Direct Attack Munitions during the exercise. South Korea suspended a 2018 inter-Korean military pact and resumed military activities along the demarcation line. The drills aim to reinforce the US extended deterrence commitment and combined defense posture against North Korea's threats.
Very strong relations with India; co-producing armored vehicles: US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin at Shangri La Dialogue
At the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin praised the strong US-India relationship. He talked about advancements in co-producing armoured vehicles and fighter jet engines. He emphasised the shared values between the two nations and predicted continued progress and momentum in the partnership. The strong ties are important for the two countries amid trouble in the Indo-Pacific region.
US, Chinese defence chiefs meet in Singapore
US and Chinese defence chiefs held talks in Singapore at the Shangri-La Dialogue. Lloyd Austin and Dong Jun met to discuss military dialogue and tensions over Taiwan and other issues.
North Korea fires missile barrage toward eastern waters days after failed satellite launch
North Korea allegedly fired a barrage of short-range ballistic missiles towards the eastern sea. The move drew condemnation from South Korea and Japan amidst heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula. The launches followed a failed attempt to launch a military reconnaissance satellite. North Korea's actions have been met with strong international criticism as they violate U.N. Security Council resolutions. The North vowed to continue developing its space reconnaissance capabilities despite setbacks.
Japan, US sign agreement to develop hypersonic missile interceptor
Japan and the United States have signed a contract to jointly develop interceptors capable of shooting down hypersonic missiles by the 2030s. The agreement, part of a plan reportedly costing over $3 billion, aims to address the increasing threat posed by hypersonic weapons in the region. Japan has allocated 75 billion yen ($480 million) in its 2024 budget for this development, as part of its efforts to strengthen its missile interception capabilities amid rising tensions with China and North Korea.
Defence chiefs from US, Australia, Japan and Philippines vow to deepen cooperation
Top defense officials from the US, Australia, Japan, and the Philippines gathered in Hawaii, vowing to strengthen cooperation amid concerns over China's actions in the South China Sea. This meeting follows their joint naval exercises in the region last month. US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin highlighted the drills' importance in enhancing collaboration and upholding international law. The officials discussed increasing the frequency of defense exercises, emphasizing their commitment to a rules-based order. The US has longstanding defense treaties with all three nations, aimed at ensuring freedom of navigation in the region.
South Korea discusses joining part of AUKUS pact with US, UK and Australia
South Korea could contribute to that second stage with its defence, science and technological capabilities, Shin said at a news conference after a meeting between Australia and South Korea's foreign and defence ministers in Melbourne.
Biden will send Ukraine air defence weapons, artillery once Senate approves, Zelenskyy says
President Joe Biden assured Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that the US will send air defense weaponry and other crucial military aid once the Senate approves a $61 billion national security aid package for Ukraine. This aid includes long-range and artillery capabilities, addressing Ukraine's urgent need for firepower against Russia's escalated attacks. The House has already approved the package, and the Senate is expected to vote on it this week. Biden also discussed Russia's air attacks with Zelenskyy, highlighting the need for urgent support to defend against Russia's aggression.
Beijing says US, Japan 'smeared and attacked' China at summit
China criticizes US and Japan for "smeared and attacked" comments during a summit on defense ties. Biden and Kishida announced plans to restructure US military command in Japan for better defense against threats like a Chinese invasion of Taiwan. China opposes the upgrade, calling it interference in its affairs. The US and Japan aim to enhance cooperation in intelligence, surveillance, cybersecurity, and joint military operations. Biden will host a trilateral summit with Japan and the Philippines to support Manila amid South China Sea tensions.
First US-Japan-Philippines summit to boost defence ties
Leaders from Japan and the Philippines are set to meet in Washington for a trilateral summit aimed at strengthening defense ties. This follows recent military drills in the South China Sea involving the US, Japan, the Philippines, and Australia, which drew criticism from Beijing. Discussions are expected to include upgrading military command structures between the US and Japan, joint coast guard patrols, securing vital supplies, and addressing North Korea's actions. The talks aim to enhance the Indo-Pacific region's security and promote a free and open environment.
Anxiety grips China as Japan strengthens defence capabilities & outreach
China expresses grave concerns over Japan's advanced fighter jets developed with Italy and the UK. Japan strengthens defence ties with Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam, and Malaysia, holding a trilateral summit in Washington DC to bolster security arrangements in the Indo-Pacific region.
US, Japan plan to strengthen security pact inked over 60 years ago
The US military is enhancing its command headquarters in Japan to improve cooperation with Japan's self-defense forces against security threats from China and North Korea. Japan plans to establish a joint headquarters for its ground, maritime, and air forces by March 2025 to deepen cooperation with the US military. The move comes amid growing concerns over North Korea's missile tests and China's military activities. Japan and the US will discuss further details ahead of talks between their leaders next month.
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