Transformations in Security Relations Between the USA, Japan and Australia

Abstract

2011 marked the 60th anniversary of both the
US-Japan Security Treaty and the ANZUS
Treaty, and 2012 saw the 40th anniversary of the
return of Okinawa to Japanese administration.
(Hook, 2012: 133, 530-531) These Cold War-era
events have no less resonance in the
contemporary era, as the security relationships
between Japan, the United States and Australia
continue to evolve. This paper will examine
recent developments in the bilateral security
relations among these three Pacific powers, and
consider whether a formal trilateral security
arrangement may soon emerge.