Weak Cyber Security Biggest Liability for Japan-US Alliance As Kishida Vows to Take on China, Russia.
Japan has committed to stepping up as a trusted defense partner for the United States in the face of global cyber security threats. Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida has expressed Tokyo’s commitment to helping its partner counter challenges ranging from Russia’s war in Ukraine to an increasingly assertive China.
The United States welcomes Japan’s new National Security Strategy, National Defense Strategy, and Defense Buildup Program, which were announced on December 16. Japan’s emphasis on coordinating with a wider range of partners in the Indo-Pacific and around the globe is seen as crucial in addressing pressing challenges to global stability and supporting nations that uphold a rules-based international order.
Concerns about Cyber Security and Information Security Vulnerabilities
Despite Japan’s commitment to bolstering defense cooperation, there are concerns about Tokyo’s cyber and information security vulnerabilities. Japanese officials and experts acknowledge that cyber and information security remain a concern for Japan’s security partners. These vulnerabilities have raised questions about whether Japan can fully support its allies in terms of protecting sensitive data and information.
Japan has experienced high-profile hacks in recent years, which have elevated long-held concerns about its ability to adequately protect sensitive data and information. These concerns are not unique to Japan, but they have become a significant issue for both Japan and the United States.
The United States has stated that Japan’s ability to protect sensitive data and information will be considered when identifying collaboration opportunities. This indicates that cyber and information security will be an important factor in determining the extent of collaboration between the two countries.
Expectations of International Collaboration on Defense Projects
Japan’s recently relaxed rules on defense exports have raised expectations that Japan can increase international collaboration on defense projects. The announcement of new areas of military cooperation between Japan and its allies, including tapping Japan’s industrial capacity to bolster defense production and potentially developing new technologies with AUKUS security partners Australia and Britain, has further fueled these expectations.
The relaxation of defense export rules in Japan allows for greater flexibility in collaborating with international partners on defense projects. This change is seen as a positive development that can enhance Japan’s ability to contribute to international defense efforts.
In summary, while Japan has stepped up as a trusted defense partner for the United States, concerns remain about its cyber and information security vulnerabilities. However, the recently relaxed rules on defense exports in Japan have bolstered expectations of increased international collaboration on defense projects.