Australia collaborates with Japan on military technology under the Aukus framework, aiming to boost regional stability without forming a new alliance named ‘Jaukus’. This initiative, focusing on areas like underwater drones and cybersecurity, seeks to counteract Chinese influence while keeping Japan outside the formal Aukus agreement.
Australia has been in the spotlight for its collaboration with Japan on military technology, emphasizing that this cooperation does not signal the formation of a new alliance named “Jaukus.” The initiative stems from the Aukus partnership, which includes Australia, the United Kingdom, and the United States, focusing on enhancing regional stability and security. Despite concerns from China, the partnership is exploring advanced military capabilities, particularly in its second stage, without directly including Japan in the Aukus agreement.
Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles highlighted Japan’s technological prowess, supporting the initiative for collaboration while maintaining that Australia’s acquisition of Virginia-class submarines from the US is separate from any commitment to support the US militarily in the region. These discussions extend beyond submarines to encompass underwater drones, quantum technologies, and cybersecurity, with Australia expressing eagerness to work with Japan on project-specific bases without extending Aukus membership.
The United States, United Kingdom, and Australia have expressed intentions to work with Japan on advanced technology projects within the Aukus security framework, particularly under its Pillar II, which concentrates on cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence and quantum computing. The allies considered Japan’s strengths and defence partnerships as beneficial for cooperation in advanced capabilities. This collaboration aligns with strategies to counter Chinese influence and stems ahead of significant diplomatic engagements, including a summit between Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and President Joe Biden in Washington, highlighting the efforts to strengthen alliances and deter potential conflicts, notably with China.
In a separate policy domain, the UK Labour Party proposed tightening measures on tax advantages for “non-doms” residing in the UK. Shadow Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced a plan aimed at eliminating a tax exemption that permits foreign residents to avoid UK taxes on overseas income. This measure is expected to generate over £1bn in tax revenue in its first year if implemented, marking a significant move towards addressing funding gaps for health and education while taking a firmer stance against tax evasion.
