TOKYO: Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin affirmed the United States’ commitment to enhancing trilateral cooperation with South Korea and Japan during his visit to Tokyo, emphasizing the partnership’s significance for Indo-Pacific security.
According to Yonhap News Agency, Austin’s comments come amid uncertainties regarding the future of trilateral relations after President-elect Donald Trump takes office next month, and concerns over whether South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol’s previous brief imposition of martial law might affect collaboration among the three nations. Speaking at Yokota Air Base in Tokyo, Austin highlighted the advancements made in trilateral security cooperation, noting its critical role in regional stability. “That trilateral relationship has really helped to increase the security and stability in the region. We are in a place now that we’ve never been,” he stated.
The Biden administration’s efforts have led to the establishment of systems for real-time sharing of North Korean missile dat
a and the execution of joint military exercises such as “Freedom Edge.” Austin’s remarks also touched on the potential for Japan to join the U.S.-led U.N. Command (UNC) in South Korea, a prospect complicated by historical tensions with South Korea. While Austin acknowledged the importance of the UNC in maintaining stability on the peninsula, he did not address Japan’s potential membership directly.
Austin also expressed concerns about the military relationship between Russia and North Korea, which he described as “transactional.” While Indo-Pacific Command Commander Adm. Samuel Paparo suggested that North Korea might receive fighter jets in exchange for troops sent to Russia, Austin refrained from elaborating on the matter. He did, however, acknowledge the exchange of munitions and weapons between the two countries and anticipated reciprocal actions from Russia.
During his visit, Austin observed the Yama Sakura 87 military exercise at Camp Asaka, focusing on U.S.-Japan bilateral coordination with the recent
inclusion of Australia. The exercise simulated responses to regional emergencies, with Austin commending the participating troops for their collaboration and readiness. “I am confident we have the right capabilities, the right platforms, the right munitions, the right processes, but most importantly we have right people,” he remarked, emphasizing the importance of personnel in military operations.