DefenceTalkChina is considering reorganizing its seven military regions into five in a bid to respond more swiftly to a crisis, the Japanese daily Yomiuri Shimbun reported on Wednesday. The news comes amid rising tensions over Beijing’s territorial claims in the region, with China and Japan squaring off over a chain of uninhabited islands in the […]https://www.defencetalk.com/china-mulls-revamping-military-regions-japan-report-50010/

DefenceTalkPentagon chief Chuck Hagel on Friday praised a decision by Japanese officials to allow the relocation of a US air base in Okinawa, calling it a “milestone” for relations with Tokyo. Hagel welcomed the approval of the long-delayed move of the US Marine Corps base, which he said would permit a redeployment of American forces […]https://www.defencetalk.com/us-welcomes-deal-on-relocating-air-base-in-japan-49992/

DefenceTalkPacifist Japan will adopt new defence guidelines next week paving the way for its military to respond more quickly and forcefully to perceived threats from China and North Korea, officials said Thursday. The government of conservative Prime Minister Shinzo Abe will approve rules intended to help air, land and sea forces work together more effectively […]https://www.defencetalk.com/japan-to-boost-military-amid-row-with-china-49925/

DefenceTalkThe US Navy has deployed sophisticated surveillance aircraft to Japan, officials said Monday, amid rising tension over China’s territorial claims in the region. Two P-8A Poseidon patrol jets departed Jacksonville, Florida on Friday and arrived later at Kadena air base in Okinawa, in a move that was planned before Beijing declared an air defense zone […]https://www.defencetalk.com/us-navy-deploys-new-surveillance-aircraft-to-japan-49793/

DefenceTalkTwo US B-52 bombers flew over a disputed area of the East China Sea without informing Beijing, US officials said Tuesday, challenging China’s bid to create an expanded “air defense zone.” The unarmed aircraft took off from Guam on Monday and the flight was previously scheduled as part of a routine exercise in the area, […]https://www.defencetalk.com/us-flies-b-52-bombers-in-chinas-air-defense-zone-49759/

DefenceTalkThe United States on Monday joined ally Japan in vowing not to recognize China’s declaration of an air defense zone over much of the East China Sea, a move that has sharply escalated tensions. China and Japan each summoned the other’s ambassador after Beijing said Saturday it had established an Air Defense Identification Zone — […]https://www.defencetalk.com/us-backs-japan-as-china-tensions-soar-on-air-zone-49739/

DefenceTalkJapanese soldiers practised surface-to-ship missile drills Monday on an island at the gateway to the Pacific, as part of a huge military exercise that has unsettled China. The practice in Okinawa was part of 18-day war games which Japan began earlier this month. They aim to strengthen its ability to protect remote territory, as a […]https://www.defencetalk.com/japan-military-drills-missiles-on-pacific-gateway-49616/

DefenceTalkThe Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) has successfully completed yet another series of test firings of Raytheon’s Patriot Air and Missile Defense System at McGregor Range, N.M. The Annual Service Practice included target engagement and firings of Patriot in stressing tactical mission scenarios. “Raytheon is committed to supporting our partners in maintaining the operational readiness […]https://www.defencetalk.com/patriot-delivers-another-flawless-performance-in-japan-test-firings-49602/

DefenceTalkIn a joint statement today, U.S. and Japanese diplomatic and military leaders agreed to revise the 1997 Guidelines for U.S.-Japan Defense Cooperation, increase security and defense collaboration in the Asia-Pacific region and beyond, and advance the realignment of American troops in Japan. Secretary of State John F. Kerry and Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel met with […]https://www.defencetalk.com/us-japan-agree-to-expand-security-defense-cooperation-49280/

DefenceTalkThe Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress today of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Japan of an E-767 Airborne Warning and Control System (AWACS) Mission Computing Upgrade (MCU) and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $950 million. The Government of Japan has requested a possible sale of an […]https://www.defencetalk.com/japan-plans-airborne-warning-and-control-system-upgrade-49218/