Tokyo: US President Donald Trump announced Tuesday the approval of the first batch of missiles for Japan’s Self-Defense Forces to be used in their F-35 fighter jets. Trump made the announcement during a visit to the USS George Washington at the Yokosuka naval base near Tokyo, expressing satisfaction with the early delivery schedule.

According to Anadolu Agency, Trump highlighted the importance of military superiority and emphasized US dominance in military capabilities. He assured American troops that in any future conflicts, the US would emerge victorious. Trump also praised the advanced technology of US military equipment, asserting the unparalleled strength of the US Navy and the overall military forces.

During the visit, Trump was accompanied by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who also addressed the troops. Takaichi emphasized Japan’s commitment to contributing to peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region. She reiterated her intention to continue the security policies of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, focusing on a ‘free and open Indo-Pacific’ as a cornerstone for regional peace and prosperity.

Takaichi also announced plans to reinforce Japan’s defense capabilities in response to a challenging security environment. She committed to increasing Japan’s defense spending to 2% of its GDP ahead of previous timelines, underscoring the importance of the US-Japan alliance in maintaining regional security.

The US-Japan mutual defense treaty involves the deployment of over 50,000 US soldiers in Japan, along with extensive arms and military bases, reinforcing the strategic partnership between the two nations.