The latest news highlights India and Japan solidifying their defence relations through the signing of a significant logistics agreement named Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA). This arrangement, similar to the ones India shares with other nations such as the USA, Australia, France, Oman, and Singapore, aims to strengthen the armed forces of both countries by facilitating close coordination in services and supplies. Here, we break down the details of this agreement, its implications, and the scope of India-Japan defence cooperation.
Understanding The Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement
The ACSA is primarily designed to foster greater maritime cooperation between Japan and India and potentially enhance their naval exercises by facilitating the sharing of maritime facilities for mutual benefit. It provides a robust framework for the increased collaboration between the two countries’ armed forces, allowing for the reciprocal provision of supplies and services during bilateral training activities, United Nations peacekeeping operations, humanitarian international relief, and other mutually agreed activities.
The services and supplies encompassed in this agreement include, but are not limited to, food, water, transportation, airlift, petroleum supplies, clothing, communication amenities, and medical services. The agreement will be in effect for a decade and is programmed for automatic extensions for ten-year periods unless either country chooses to terminate it.
Increased Interoperability and Defence Engagement
One notable advantage of the ACSA is that it fosters enhanced interoperability between both nations, assisting in maintaining regional security. Furthermore, it injects further momentum into the bilateral defence engagements between India and Japan. This agreement is particularly relevant in the current context, considering India’s ongoing border standoff with China at the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. It underscores a strategic unification of India and Japan against shared regional challenges.
Expanding Scope of India-Japan Defence Cooperation
In 2019, the first-ever ministerial-level 2+2 dialogue was held between India and Japan, involving Defence and Foreign Ministers on both sides. This significant move endorsed the special strategic partnership between the two nations, highlighting their shared vision of a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region, grounded in respect for sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The defence forces of India and Japan conduct a series of bilateral exercises like JIMEX (naval exercise), SHINYUU Maitri (airforce exercise), and Dharma Guardian (military exercise). They are also part of the Malabar exercise with the USA and participate together in the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (QUAD).
The Way Forward: Collaborative Growth and Technological Advancement
India seeks sophisticated weaponry and technology from Japan, and therefore more collaboration in this realm would prove beneficial to both nations. In terms of Make in India and defence deals, there is immense untapped potential that future cooperation could explore.
Joint ventures blending Japanese technology with Indian raw materials and labour could be the key to achieving this goal. Furthermore, strengthening cooperation remains a crucial strategy to counter China’s growing influence in Asia and the Indo-Pacific region.
