Australia and Japan Eye Military Intelligence-Sharing Agreement with the Philippines
Australia and Japan are moving forward with plans to develop a military intelligence-sharing agreement with the Philippines. This initiative aims to establish a common operating picture in the South China Sea and the broader Indo-Pacific region. The four defense leaders emphasized the importance of cooperation amid growing regional security concerns.
The key discussions took place during a meeting on May 31 in Singapore, where the Philippines’ Department of National Defense Secretary met with defense officials from Australia, Japan, and the United States. Sources familiar with the matter say that Australia and Japan are exploring agreements similar to the Philippines’ existing pact with the U.S., known as the bilateral General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA).
“Australia and Japan intend to undertake bilateral discussions for similar agreements with the Philippines. They affirmed that these efforts will facilitate greater information-sharing and analysis, including at a combined hub for such purpose,” a joint statement from the defense leaders revealed.
Strengthening Regional Security through Collaboration
In November 2024, the Philippines and the U.S. signed the GSOMIA, which safeguards classified military data and allows real-time intelligence exchange. This pact addresses shared concerns about China’s increasing military presence in the South China Sea, particularly in areas within the Philippines’ 200-nautical mile exclusive economic zone.
The defense chiefs expressed “continued serious concern” over China’s destabilizing actions in both the East China Sea and South China Sea. They condemned any unilateral moves to alter the status quo through force or coercion and stressed the importance of resolving disputes peacefully.
Furthermore, the officials highlighted ongoing infrastructure projects that enhance the Philippines’ defense capabilities. Japan’s installation of air surveillance radar systems at Wallace Air Station in La Union, the United States’ sensor developments at Basa Air Base in Pampanga, and Australia’s support for defense infrastructure improvements collectively boost the Armed Forces of the Philippines’ air domain awareness.
Enhancing Cybersecurity and Operational Cooperation
The four countries agreed to invest jointly in the Philippines’ cybersecurity and resilience, reinforcing defense through shared exercises and training programs. They also emphasized the need to counter threats from malicious actors targeting national security.
Operational collaboration among these nations remains a priority. The defense leaders committed to sustaining and expanding multilateral maritime cooperative activities with like-minded partners. They also plan to explore joint intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance operations to improve interoperability and coordination across the East and South China Seas and surrounding waters.
Existing Agreements and Future Prospects
The Philippines has existing Visiting Forces Agreements with the United States and Australia. Meanwhile, the Reciprocal Access Agreement signed with Japan in July 2024 awaits ratification by the Japanese National Diet.
Engagement with U.S. Congressional Leaders
In a separate engagement, the Philippine defense chief met with members of the U.S. Congress to discuss the evolving security landscape in the Indo-Pacific and global challenges. These discussions underscored the critical role of consistent and visible U.S. leadership in maintaining global stability.
“One of the greatest comforts to the Philippines is the bipartisan support we’ve received from the U.S. Congress. We really cannot overstate how grateful we are,” the Philippine official said. “American leadership is indispensable, and having this kind of leadership creates reassurance that there will be a balance of power.”
He further emphasized the importance of U.S.-led engagement not only in the region but also in international institutions worldwide, describing the United States as the “greatest shield against developments we do not want to see unfold in our lives.”
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