The UK and Japan Set to Sign Largest Defense Cooperation Agreement in a Century

The UK and Japan are set to sign the largest defense cooperation agreement in a century today, allowing both nations to deploy troops within each other's territories, according to the office of UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak.

“Years of negotiations will culminate today with the signing of a document that will swiftly enhance defense and security cooperation and allow the UK and Japan to deploy forces on each other’s soil,” the statement from the office reads.

The agreement will enable the two countries to conduct larger and more complex military exercises and troop deployments, strengthening the UK's role in maintaining security in the Indo-Pacific region.

Additionally, during the meeting, the leaders of both countries will discuss trade, economic security, and support for Ukraine, as reported by the office.

The UK will become the first European country to sign a Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) with Japan.

In December 2022, the governments of Japan, the UK, and Italy agreed to launch the Global Combat Air Programme, aimed at developing a next-generation fighter jet by 2035.