US-Japan Relations

Hegseth’s Warmongering: Japan, China, and a US-Fueled Crisis

During his first Asia trip, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth affirmed Japan’s crucial role in deterring Chinese aggression, announcing the upgrade of U.S. Forces Japan to a “war-fighting headquarters.” This upgrade, coupled with accelerated joint missile development and maintenance efforts, aims to strengthen combined military capabilities. The strengthened partnership addresses Japanese concerns about U.S. commitment under the “America First” policy and bolsters defenses in the Southwestern islands near Taiwan. This collaboration emphasizes a shared commitment to peace while preparing for potential conflict in the Indo-Pacific region.

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US Military Seeks Tokyo Property Amidst Command Restructuring

In response to growing regional threats and a Pentagon restructuring plan, U.S. Forces Japan (USFJ) is considering relocating some operations from Yokota Air Base to the Akasaka Press Center in central Tokyo. This move would place USFJ closer to Japan’s Ministry of Defense and consolidate functions within a joint force headquarters. The Akasaka Press Center, which includes Hardy Barracks and a helipad, is currently under survey to determine its suitability. While USFJ confirms discussions are underway, the specifics of the relocation remain unclear, pending further negotiations with Japanese government officials.

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