The Arms Race in Asia: Japan and Australia Beefing up Amphibious Forces to Counter China

America’s most powerful allies in the Pacific, Australia and Japan, are building up their amphibious forces, buying amphibious vehicles, V-22 aircraft and big new warships. While far smaller than the Marine Corps, the Australian and Japanese units could assist America in stabilizing the region and deterring China — if they can overcome their self-imposed limitations. Japan is preparing for high-end warfare against China, but only in its backyard; Australia is ready to operate more broadly, but not at the high end.

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