Japan and the United States have agreed to co-produce the American AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missile (AMRAAM) in a significant step towards joint missile production. High-ranking defense officials from both countries decided to accelerate the study on this collaboration during a meeting in Hawaii.
The study will assess challenges, delivery timelines, and production activities in Japan, with a target of completion by year-end. This partnership is an outcome of the Defense Industrial Cooperation, Acquisition, and Sustainment Forum established by President Biden and former Prime Minister Kishida.
Relying on the world’s most sophisticated air dominance weapon, the AMRAAM, by Raytheon, Japan’s largest air-to-air missile manufacturer Mitsubishi Electric is expected to lead the licensed production in Japan. The collaboration will also explore opportunities for Patriot PAC-3 Missile Segment Enhancement co-production.
Enhancing Defense Cooperation and Missile Production
The joint efforts between the US and Japan extend to negotiations on expanding Patriot surface-to-air missile co-production and supplying additional missiles to Ukraine in response to Russia’s actions in the conflict. This strategic move emphasizes the growing interdependence of allied nations in defense production and preparedness.
In conclusion, the integration of defense industries among the US, Japan, and South Korea aims to address production shortages and enhance regional security.