In this episode, we cover the long standing alliance between the United States and Japan, and its future trajectory in the face of regional and global security challenges. We discuss Japan’s evolving defense posture, highlighting significant changes since Japan’s introduction of new national defense strategies in 2023 and an increase in military spending. We explore the implications of Japan's evolving role in regional security in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in response to China's growing power and North Korea's missile program. The episode also covers Japan's potential future participation in alliances such as the Five Eyes and AUKUS, and the challenges and opportunities for Japan's defense industrial base. Finally, we spotlight recent legislative changes in Japan establishing a government security clearance program, which marks a significant step towards deeper integration with global security frameworks. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how these developments shape the strategic landscape in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.