US and Japan draw up first 'extended deterrence' guidelines for North Korea, China and Russia nuclear threats

Kyodo News reported that the U.S.-Japan government has written the first guideline on "extended deterrence" that the U.S. is involved in Japan's defense with power, including nuclear weapons.

Kyodo News said the Japanese foreign ministry official did not elaborate, saying it was related to important security guarantees.

The Foreign Ministry said it created guidelines based on discussions accumulated through extended deterrence dialogue and explained that the document strengthens the process of consultation and communication of the existing U.S.-Japan alliance related to extended deterrence.

The paper then addressed strategic messages to maximize extended deterrence and gave meaning to strengthen the U.S. response to extended deterrence, which will be enhanced by Japan's defense capabilities.

Against the backdrop of the guidelines, the Foreign Ministry said the U.S.-Japan alliance faces a more severe nuclear threat environment, and the governments of the two countries are stepping up extended deterrence to promote regional stability and deter conflict.

He said the U.S.-Japan alliance will continue to explore the best ways to ensure extended deterrence functions as a robust and reliable means.

Since 2010, the United States and Japan have held extended deterrence dialogue involving diplomatic and defense officials from both countries.