Japan, the United States, and South Korea plan to establish a real-time information-sharing system to monitor North Korean missile activities, Nikkei Asia tells us in a report.
The move comes in response to North Korea's repeated ballistic missile tests, which have raised concerns about regional security.
The three countries' defense ministers discussed the initiative during their meeting in Singapore at the Asia Security Summit, also known as the Shangri-La Dialogue.
More Accurate North Korea Launch Detection
The current system employed by the United States allows for missile tracking individually with Japan and South Korea.
However, there is no direct mechanism for real-time information sharing between the two East Asian allies.
The new system aims to address this gap, enabling more accurate and timely detection and tracking of projectiles launched by North Korea.
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Assessing Threats Posed by North Korea
The agreement to share missile warning data in real-time was reached during a tri-lateral meeting in Cambodia last November involving Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida, U.S. President Joe Biden, and South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol.
The objective is to enhance the ability of each country to detect and assess the threat posed by North Korean missiles.
North Korea Pushes for Launch Amid Recent Failure
A recent failed launch of a North Korean military reconnaissance satellite underscored the need for such collaboration.
The rocket carrying the satellite experienced significant engine malfunctions, indicating a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions.
While North Korea has acknowledged the abnormal flight and pledged to make another attempt, the launch window remains open until June 11.
As a result, Tokyo, Washington, and Seoul remain vigilant about the possibility of further launches.
North Korea's missile tests have been a cause for concern since the beginning of last year. There are fears that the country may also conduct its seventh nuclear test, the first since September 2017.
Against this backdrop, Japan, the United States, and South Korea have intensified their security cooperation.
Following President Yoon's assumption of office in May last year, the recent improvement in relations between Japan and South Korea has contributed to strengthening their partnership.
In addition to the trilateral meeting, Japanese Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada and U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin held a separate discussion with their Australian counterpart Richard Marles in Singapore.
The meeting further underscores the importance of regional collaboration and coordination to address security challenges in the Asia-Pacific region.
Collective Defense Capabilities
The establishment of a real-time information-sharing system among Japan, the United States, and South Korea represents a significant step forward in enhancing their collective defense capabilities against North Korean missile threats.
By pooling their resources and expertise, the three nations aim to bolster their ability to detect and respond swiftly to any missile launches by North Korea.
As the region remains on high alert, close cooperation among these key allies will play a crucial role in maintaining peace and stability in Northeast Asia.
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