US Allies War Games: China Response
Australia and Japan, both U.S. allies, just concluded a joint military exercise in the East China Sea, a clear demonstration of their commitment to regional stability amid rising tensions. This exercise, involving the JS Haguro and HMAS Sydney, reinforces the importance of Indo-Pacific cooperation and sends a strong message about freedom of navigation.The joint military drill highlights the strategic alignment between australia and Japan in the face of China’s growing presence and activities in the area. The exercise, including the warship’s visit to Japan’s naval base, shows both countries’ dedication to ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific. Read more about these maneuvers and the recent circumnavigation of Australia by the Chinese navy. Discover what’s next from News Directory 3.
Australia, Japan Conduct joint Military Exercise in East China Sea
Updated June 04, 2025
Australian and Japanese naval forces recently concluded a joint military exercise in the East China Sea, a region where China’s activities have raised concerns. The exercise underscores the commitment of both nations to a free and open Indo-Pacific region and highlights their strategic alliance.
The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force reported that its destroyer JS Haguro and the Australian destroyer HMAS Sydney participated in the bilateral exercise on Sunday. This joint effort reinforces the two countries’ dedication to regional security amid China’s growing presence in the area.
Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force
Following the exercise, the HMAS Sydney made a port call at Japan’s Yokosuka naval base for replenishment. The Australian Defense Force has stated that the Sydney is currently on a three-month deployment, designated regional Presence Deployment 25-2, in the Indo-Pacific, reinforcing Australia’s commitment to regional security and stability.
During this deployment, the Australian warship also participated in monitoring North Korea’s maritime activities, which are prohibited under United Nations Security Council resolutions. These activities aim to curb North Korea’s imports of refined petroleum and crude oil, as well as its exports of coal, supporting the goal of denuclearization.
The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force emphasized that it “maintains readiness and contributes to the peace and stability of the Indo-pacific region,not only for the defense of Japan but also for the realization of a ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific’ in cooperation with allied and like-minded navies.”
Similarly, the Australian Defense Force stated, “Australia and its partners share a commitment to upholding the right to freedom of navigation and overflight, other lawful uses of the sea and international airspace, and other maritime rights under international law, notably in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.”
What’s next
The response from China to the increased Australian military presence in the East China Sea remains to be seen. This growth follows a recent circumnavigation of Australia by the Chinese navy, adding to the complexities of regional security.