New Defence Pact Strengthens Australia–Japan Military Interoperability, Defence Industry Ties

The joint agreement focuses on closer integration between the Australia’s and Japan’s defence forces.

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi (L) and Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese pose with documents following a signing ceremony at Parliament House in Canberra, Australia, on May 4, 2026. Saeed Khan/AFP via Getty Images

Australia and Japan have signed an upgraded defence pact aimed at strengthening the two nations’ defence capabilities.

The joint agreement focuses on closer integration between the Australia’s and Japan’s defence forces, including greater intelligence sharing, joint development and maintenance of defence technology, expanded training exercises and cooperation on supply chains and maritime security.