U.S. and Japan to Announce Major Defense Treaty Restructuring Amid China Concerns

The strategic overhaul, set for April 10, aims to enhance military cooperation and address regional security threats.

The U.S. and Japan are set to announce a significant restructuring of their mutual defense treaty on April 10, aimed at addressing security challenges posed by China.
This strategic move includes plans to restructure the U.S. military command in Japan, enhancing operational planning and joint military exercises.
Proposals under consideration involve appointing a four-star commander to oversee U.S. forces in Japan, matching the rank of the Japanese counterpart in a new joint command headquarters.
Japan has increased its defense spending by 16.5% for 2024, signaling a shift away from post-war pacifism and a stronger stance against regional threats.
The enhanced U.S.-Japan military cooperation marks the most substantial upgrade in their security ties since the 1960s, reflecting both nations' commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region.