In a show of deepening defense ties, Britain and Japan have agreed to collaborate on space initiatives. The agreement was reached on Friday and follows the two countries' partnership on the
development of a new fighter jet.
The space cooperation deal was signed in Tokyo and aims to expand opportunities for collaboration between Britain and Japan in the space sector. It comes as both countries seek to strengthen their defense capabilities against potential threats.
Japan has been making significant strides in space technology in recent years, with its successful asteroid probe mission and plans to send astronauts to the moon in the 2030s. Britain, on the other hand, has been investing in its own space industry, including the development of its first sovereign spaceport.
The collaboration between Britain and Japan in space is expected to involve joint research and development, as well as sharing of expertise and technology. It could also pave the way for future joint missions and projects.
The space deal follows the recent visit of UK Defense Secretary Ben Wallace to Japan, where he met with his counterpart, Nobuo Kishi. During the visit, the two countries reaffirmed their commitment to the development of a new fighter jet, which is expected to enter service in the mid-2030s.
The fighter jet project, known as the Tempest program, is seen as a key part of Britain's post-Brexit defense strategy, as it seeks to forge new partnerships and strengthen existing ones. Japan's participation in the project is seen as a significant step in its own efforts to enhance its military capabilities.
The Tempest program is a joint effort by Britain's BAE Systems, Rolls-Royce, Leonardo, and MBDA, and involves the development of a new stealthy, fifth-generation fighter jet. The project is expected to create thousands of jobs and generate billions of pounds in economic benefits.
The deepening defense ties between Britain and Japan come amid growing concerns over China's military expansion and assertiveness in the Indo-Pacific region. Both countries have been seeking to counter China's influence by strengthening their military and diplomatic ties with other countries in the region.
The signing of the space cooperation deal is seen as a significant milestone in the growing partnership between Britain and Japan. It reflects the two countries' shared commitment to enhancing their defense capabilities and exploring new frontiers in space.
The space industry is expected to play an increasingly important role in national security and defense, as well as in economic growth and technological innovation. The collaboration between Britain and Japan in space is a testament to the potential of international partnerships in this field. Photo by NASA, Wikimedia commons.