The Indian Navy’s recent deployment in Japan for joint exercises signals a deepening of strategic ties between the two nations, much to the unease of China. This move comes amidst Japan’s deployment of a formidable missile unit on Okinawa Island, a direct response to growing tensions with China. With both Japan and India forging stronger military partnerships, China finds itself increasingly isolated in the Indo-Pacific region.
Indian Navy’s P8i in Japan
Further cementing the maritime cooperation between India and Japan, the Indian Navy’s P8I aircraft has arrived in Japan for bilateral anti-submarine warfare exercises. This deployment underscores the commitment of both nations to enhance security and stability in the region.
Through joint operations with the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF), the Indian Navy aims to bolster its capabilities and strengthen the ties between the two navies.
It has been reported previously, last December, INS Kadmatt’s visit to Yokosuka, Japan for Operational Turnaround (OTR) marked another milestone in Indo-Japanese maritime cooperation. Such engagements not only enhance interoperability but also foster mutual understanding and trust between the two maritime forces. As India and Japan continue to deepen their defence ties, the Indo-Pacific region witnesses a shift in power dynamics, with implications for regional security.
India-Japan Friendship: A Strategic Alliance
The friendship between India and Japan is rooted in shared values of democracy, peace, and prosperity. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar’s recent visit to Japan further solidified this special relationship, highlighting the common concerns over China’s bullying tactics in the region. As China asserts its territorial claims in the South China Sea and disputes with Japan over islands like Senkaku and Diaoyu, India and Japan stand united in advocating for a rules-based order and peaceful resolution of conflicts.
Tensions in the East China Sea
The longstanding territorial disputes between Japan and China, particularly over the Senkaku Islands, continue to fuel tensions in the East China Sea. China’s assertiveness in claiming maritime territories and resources has led to confrontations with Japan, raising concerns about regional stability. Additionally, China’s reluctance to abide by established agreements and norms further worsens tensions, as evidenced by the recent escalation of border clashes between India and China. As China’s actions challenge the status quo, the strategic partnership between India and Japan emerges as a crucial counterbalance, promoting stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region.