Asia-Pacific nations engage in discussions to join the AUKUS security pact’s second pillar, the geopolitics of the region grow increasingly complex. AUKUS, initially comprising Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, is now in talks with South Korea, Japan, and New Zealand, signaling a significant shift in the Indo-Pacific’s strategic landscape.
South Korea has confirmed its interest in partnering with AUKUS Pillar 2, which focuses on the development of advanced military technologies such as hypersonic weapons and drones. Defence Minister Shin Won-sik remarked, “We support AUKUS Pillar 2 activities and we do welcome that members are considering Korea as an AUKUS Pillar 2 partner.” This expansion leverages South Korea’s impressive technological and defense capabilities, which includes its recent unveiling of a home-made jet fighter and its self-propelled gun Vajra.
Japan, sharing similar technological prowess, has also been involved in talks to join AUKUS Pillar 2 defense projects. Despite opposition to nuclear weapons due to its historical experiences, Japan sees the value in bolstering its defense through non-nuclear collaborations.
New Zealand has been contemplating involvement in AUKUS as well, though it is expected to align with Pillar 2 due to its longstanding nuclear-free stance. However, officials have indicated that a decision is still some way off, even though the security risks in the Pacific are escalating.
The potential expansion of AUKUS has not gone without its critics. There are also concerns about the complications that might arise from AUKUS’s growth, including the United States’ strict restrictions on sharing technology. These concerns have prompted the US State Department to consider plans to relax such restrictions to facilitate military gear and technology transfer to Britain and Australia, potentially smoothing the path for new partners.
There is a real appetite for encouraging Japan to participate as a trusted collaborator with the US and Australia. This is demonstrated in the trilateral arrangements between them, as well as the quadrilateral ties with India, known as the Quad. Japan is also boosting its ties with the Philippines, South Korea and Britain.
Relevant articles:
– AUKUS In Talks With South Korea, Japan , New Zealand To Join , Strategic News Global, 05/01/2024
– First Japan, now South Korea confirms Aukus talks on joining defence pact, South China Morning Post, 05/01/2024
– Feigned reluctance: New Zealand mulled joining AUKUS from the start, Asia Times, 05/01/2024
– More talk than substance in Japan joining AUKUS, China Daily, 04/28/2024