US, Japan Launch Joint Missile Production

The United States and Japan have agreed to jointly produce advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles.

This decision was announced by Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi after a meeting with US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth.

The missiles will be produced as part of a joint effort called 'Operation Supercharge' and are essential for the F-35 fighter jets used by the Japanese military.

The move is seen as a response to rising regional security concerns, particularly China's growing aggression in Asia.

Koizumi and Hegseth reaffirmed the importance of a free and open international order based on the rule of law, without directly mentioning China.

The US has assured its commitment to help deter aggression in the region, particularly in the disputed South China Sea.