The Australia-Japan Defence relationship: improving interoperability at the operational level

This paper analyses ways to deepen the Australia-Japan defence relationship. It argues that while there has been considerable progress in the last decade, the operational level is the missing aspect of the defence relationship, and that there is still much work to be done to achieve interoperability between the ADF and the Japanese Self-Defence Force.

The paper contends that the key to bridging the apparent strategic-tactical divide is not only to focus on the operational level but also to build capacity in operational planning through developing a thorough understanding of each other's planning doctrines, operational and intelligence capabilities and limitations, and rules of engagement. The paper concludes that this is best addressed through more involvement by Japan in Australian operations and exercises, notably Operation RENDER SAFE and Exercises PACIFIC PARTNERSHIP and TALISMAN SABRE.

Author