Turning the Hiroshima Accord into Action: Enhancing UK-Japan Defence Collaboration (Studio)

Brought to you in partnership with Fujitsu

In a world where global security dynamics are in constant flux, the strategic partnership between the UK and Japan has the potential to be a beacon of stability and innovation.

The Hiroshima Accord, a significant agreement between these two nations, heralds a new era of defence collaboration. Signed on 18 May 2023, this agreement aims to enhance cooperation across multiple domains, including defence, trade, technology, and environmental sustainability.

Strengthening Bilateral Defence Capabilities

The Accord significantly strengthens military collaboration between the UK and Japan. This includes regular joint military exercises, shared defence procurement, and cooperative research and development in advanced military technologies.

Notably, the UK has committed to deploying its Carrier Strike Group to the Indo-Pacific in 2025 and doubling troop numbers in joint exercises.

Senior defence officials from both countries have highlighted the Accord’s operational benefits, noting that it will enhance joint operations and military presence in the Indo-Pacific while driving innovation and strengthening defence ties.

From Commitment to Action: Implementing the Hiroshima Accord

Nevertheless, transforming the Hiroshima Accord’s commitments into actionable defence projects requires careful planning and execution. This process involves navigating complex bureaucratic landscapes, integrating cutting-edge technologies, and ensuring these initiatives deliver tangible strategic and operational benefits.

Key steps for this transformation include effective project management, cross-national collaboration, and ongoing technological innovation. Addressing these elements ensures that the Accord’s commitments translate into real-world outcomes, enhancing the defence capabilities and operational readiness of both nations.

The practical aspects of this implementation are highlighted by the launch of joint science and technology programs and a new Cyber Partnership. These initiatives focus on areas such as cybersecurity and semiconductors, aiming to reduce reliance on Chinese manufacturing and improve supply chain resilience.

Harnessing Innovative Technologies for Defence Collaboration

Emerging technologies are reshaping global defence strategies. Innovations such as artificial intelligence, digital twins, and advanced analytics can significantly enhance defence collaboration between the UK and Japan. These technologies offer substantial operational advantages, from improving decision-making processes to increasing the efficiency of defence operations.

To effectively integrate these technologies into defence frameworks, both nations must focus on research and development, fostering an environment where innovation thrives. This approach helps maintain a technological edge and ensures defence capabilities remain at the forefront of global advancements.

A notable example is the strategic partnership between Imperial College London and the University of Tokyo to develop a UK-Japan Cleantech Innovation Hub and scale up the rapid development of green technologies.

Integrating SMEs and OEMs into Defence Projects

Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are vital for driving innovation and agility within the defence sector. Partnerships between original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and SMEs can lead to the development of innovative solutions that enhance defence capabilities.

By creating a supportive ecosystem for SMEs, the UK and Japan can foster a dynamic and responsive defence sector capable of addressing modern threats.

Despite these promising steps, there remains a long road ahead. Significant challenges persist, from navigating complex bureaucratic landscapes to ensuring seamless technology integration and operational viability.

The journey to fully realise the ambitions of the Hiroshima Accord will require sustained effort, strategic foresight, and robust international cooperation.

Join the panel discussion at the Farnborough Airshow on Thursday, 25 July, to learn more about these themes and their practical implications.

• 10:50 am on 25 July: The UK and the Defence of Japan: Turning the Hiroshima Accord into Action