Knowledge Sharing, Collaborative Training and Personnel Exchange Foreseen
The senior leaders of the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the Japanese Air Self Defence Force (JASDF) signed terms of reference at DSEI Japan last week, outlining an agreement for future cooperation in space.
Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston and General Shunji Izutsu, signed the document that establishes a framework for engagement discussions to facilitate future cooperation in areas such as operational knowledge sharing, collaborative exercises and training, and personnel exchanges. It also sets out a mutual desire for the sharing of space-related information through future information-sharing arrangements. “Japan is a valued international partner of the UK. We share common values and strategic interests, and we are working ever more closely in the face of global security challenges. The space domain is critical to our shared security and prosperity, and a vital area of cooperation, underpinned by UK Space Command and the Koku-Jietai {JASDF],” stated the RAF commander.
UK Space Command – a joint command – leads British defence efforts in space operations, space workforce, and space capability. It’s a Joint Command, based at RAF High Wycombe, and staffed by personnel from the Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force, alongside civil servants, and contractors. “Our international partners are our greatest advantage in the space domain. This arrangement is an important step as we build our relationship with the JASDF, so that we can keep space safe, secure, and sustainable for the benefit of all,” explained its commander, Air Vice Marshal Paul Godfrey.