Despite extremely positive academic and political rhetoric regarding the future of the defence relationship between the Royal Australian Air Force and Japan Self-Defense Force, translating this to meaningful engagement is a unique and time-consuming process. There is currently a disparity between the positive political intent and rhetoric and the practicalities of fruitful engagement with the JSDF. The signing of the Australia-Japan Joint Declaration on Security in March 2007 by Prime Ministers Howard and Abe marked a commitment by the governments of both countries to develop defence ties.
This paper provides a roadmap for engaging with the JSDF whether in exercise, operation or dialogue. The paper is written from a RAAF perspective but is aimed to be applicable to all services of the ADF and to defence civilians involved in international policy or the planning and conduct of activities with the JSDF.
This publication is out of print.