On June 3, Japan and Indonesia reached an agreement to hold expert-level discussions on the possible transfer of Asagiri-class destroyers from Tokyo to Jakarta. This move represents the latest effort to bolster defense ties between the two countries, which share a common perspective on regional security.
The agreement comes as Japan accelerates the export of defense equipment to partner nations, in line with its updated national security strategy from December 2022. Tokyo has previously signed defense cooperation agreements with several Southeast Asian countries, including Indonesia.
The Asagiri-class destroyers, built by Japan and commissioned in the late 1980s, are equipped for anti-submarine warfare and medium-range air defense. If the deal goes through, it would mark the first time Japan exports a large naval vessel to another country.
Analysts say the deal carries not only economic significance but also reflects growing strategic trust between Tokyo and Jakarta amid increasing competition for influence in the Indo-Pacific region.
