Germany and Japan plan to sign a major defense agreement — Politico
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius has officially invited Japan to sign a Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA), which is expected to significantly streamline cooperation between the armed forces of both countries.
This was reported by Politico.
This step is aimed at removing bureaucratic barriers to the deployment of troops on a partner’s territory for joint exercises and operations.
Speaking at the Japanese naval base in Yokosuka following talks with Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, Pistorius emphasized the importance of establishing a clear legal framework.
According to Politico, the framework agreement is intended to “simplify the exchange of military personnel between countries and significantly reduce bureaucratic obstacles.”
Such agreements allow partner countries to deploy contingents much more quickly and efficiently, as they resolve administrative and legal procedures in advance.
Japan already has similar experience cooperating with the United Kingdom and Australia, which helps strengthen security in the region.
The German minister emphasized that this initiative is part of the West’s broader response to growing global instability.
“Just how close our partnership is has become clear in light of current events in Iran and the Middle East,” Boris Pistorius stated, highlighting shared challenges.
The parties paid particular attention to energy security and the protection of sea lanes, particularly in the Strait of Hormuz, on which Japanese imports critically depend.
“Freedom of navigation must be guaranteed and protected,” added the head of Germany’s defense ministry during the briefing.
Berlin and Tokyo are demonstrating a united stance in support of a rules-based international order, which is becoming particularly relevant in 2026.
Both countries express concern over attempts to change the world order by force and emphasize the primacy of international law.
“We are united by the conviction that the rule of law must prevail,” Pistorius concluded, confirming Germany’s readiness to play a more active role in the Indo-Pacific region.
As a reminder, Germany has simplified arms export procedures for Ukraine and the Gulf states.
Germany also rejected Trump’s demand to participate in the operation in the Strait of Hormuz.
