Sanae Takaichi Expands Japan-Philippines Defense Ties Despite China's Warnings

Between May and June 2026, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) commissioned its ninth and tenth Mogami-class frigates, the JS Natori and JS Nagara. The JS Natori entered service on May 21, 2026, followed by the JS Nagara on June 29. These additions mark the latest expansion of Japan's Mogami-class fleet as of August 2026.

The Mogami-class frigates are designed with high levels of automation to mitigate Japan's declining workforce. These vessels, with a standard displacement of approximately 3,900 tons and a length of about 133 meters, can operate effectively with crews of only around 90 personnel due to extensive automation. This design choice allows for the integration of multi-role combat systems while reducing operational staffing requirements.

Australia has formally committed to acquiring 11 upgraded Mogami-class general-purpose frigates, with contracts for the first three finalized in April 2026. The initial deliveries are slated for 2029, and construction is planned to shift to Henderson, Western Australia. The Australian version of these frigates will feature an extended range of 10,000 nautical miles.

Japan and the Philippines have deepened their legal defense architecture with two key agreements. A reciprocal access agreement, which facilitates temporary operations for both Japanese and Philippine forces, became effective on September 11, 2025. This was followed by an Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA), which came into force on August 22, 2026, designed to streamline military logistics such as fuel, food, and medical supplies during joint activities.

Japan dramatically scaled up its military participation in the Philippines during Balikatan 2026, which took place from April 20 to May 8. Approximately 1,400 Japanese personnel were deployed, a tenfold increase from the previous year. The exercises included the JS Izumo and Type 88 surface-to-ship missiles, with a focus on anti-ship and air defense training.

On May 6, Japan's Defense Minister Shinzo Koizumi and Philippine Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro Junior observed the first live-fire exercise involving Japan's Type 88 surface-to-ship missile system in the Philippines. This event drew criticism from China, which warned Japan to reflect on its historical actions.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian issued a stern warning to Japan regarding its military expansion and historical record. Lin accused Japan of exceeding its defense-only policies and urged a deep reflection on its history of militaristic aggression. China called on Japan to honor its commitments and remain prudent in military and security areas.

On May 28, 2026, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. elevated the bilateral relationship between Japan and the Philippines to a comprehensive strategic partnership. This marks the first time the Philippines has established such a high-level partnership category with any nation. The agreement also includes plans to negotiate the protection of classified military data.

Japan and the Philippines have reached a broad consensus on continuing discussions for the transfer of retired military assets. Japan's Defense Ministry confirmed talks aimed at promptly transferring Abukuma-class vessels after their decommissioning. Additionally, there are plans for the transfer of one TC-90 aircraft by 2027, with officials meeting in Singapore to advance these initiatives.

The transfer of warships from Japan to the Philippines involves significant operational challenges. Philippine crews require extensive training, and new maintenance systems must be established. Ensuring the availability of replacement parts, compatibility of communications equipment, and potential modifications to birthing facilities are also crucial. Furthermore, the transferred ships must be seamlessly integrated into the Philippine Navy's existing command structure.

While Philippine Secretary of National Defense Gilberto Teodoro Jr. stated that administrative details are being finalized and that the transfer of five ships is expected within two to three years, Tokyo remains more cautious. Japanese officials emphasize that the exact ship count and transfer schedule are still under discussion. Although the transfer is substantial in principle, its specific details have not yet been publicly finalized.

Japan is broadening its security assistance to the Philippines beyond just ship transfers. Tokyo has approved 900 million yen under its official security assistance program for the construction of boat houses and slipways, supporting rigid-hull inflatable boats operated by the Philippine Navy. This recent aid follows earlier support that included radar systems and maritime surveillance equipment, all aimed at improving the Philippine Air Force's surveillance network.

The strategic framework between Japan and the Philippines is leading to a significant increase in interoperability, a level that was difficult to imagine a generation ago. The reciprocal access agreement facilitates smoother deployments of forces, while the ACSA enhances logistical support between the two nations. Additionally, new cooperation on the protection of classified information further strengthens their deepening military ties.

Tensions in the South China Sea continue, particularly near disputed shoals. On July 20, Philippine authorities accused Chinese Coast Guard personnel of injuring a Filipino sailor during a confrontation near Second Thomas Shoal. There have also been incidents at Scarborough Shoal involving water cannons. Beijing disputes Manila's narrative of these confrontations, maintaining differing accounts of the events.

President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is pursuing a dual-track approach to China, balancing defense and diplomacy. In August, Marcos described his proposed reset with China as an attempt to return to dialogue whenever tensions rise, aiming to reduce the chance of mistakes or misunderstandings at sea escalating into wider confrontations. While Manila seeks to avoid economic distancing from China, it simultaneously maintains robust military partnerships to secure its interests.

The cumulative impact of Japan-Philippines security integration is fundamentally reshaping the regional security architecture. This strategic shift is driven by a gradual build-up: more ships, enhanced surveillance capabilities, stronger logistics, increased training, greater information sharing, and improved infrastructure. The militaries of both nations are increasingly learning to operate alongside one another, creating a robust network of operations rather than relying on single assets. Beijing is closely monitoring this evolving military architecture.