Japan, Australia agree on SDF use of missile test sites in Australia, raising concerns

TOKYO, Aug. 18 (Xinhua) -- Japan and Australia agreed in Canberra on Tuesday to advance arrangements for the Japan Self-Defense Forces (SDF) to use missile test sites in Australia, Kyodo News reported.

Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and Australia's Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defense Richard Marles discussed a range of security cooperation during their talks in the Australian capital, including allowing the SDF to conduct test launches of long-range missiles in Australia for the purpose of bolstering so-called "counterstrike capabilities."

The two sides also agreed to further expand defense equipment cooperation, including efforts to facilitate Japan's exports of its upgraded Mogami-class frigates to Australia.

They also mentioned a successful field trial in Australia of a detection system based on laser technology and co-developed by the two countries.

In recent years, Japan and Australia have continued to strengthen defense cooperation. Beyond Japan's push to export frigates to Australia, the two countries have now expanded collaboration into long-range missile testing. The developments are seen as potentially heightening regional military tensions and confrontation, raising widespread concerns.