Systems and Technology Forum (1980–present)

U.S. Agencies

Japan Agencies

Meeting Frequency

Context

• Established in 1980 and reorganized in 2003, this is the primary body for discussion and coordination of bilateral defense equipment and technology cooperation to enhance efficiency and interoperability.

Goals

• To create and facilitate joint programs that benefit both countries’ autonomous defense policies.

Significance

The allies have cooperated on research into ducted rocket engines, advanced steel technology, fighting vehicle propulsion, shallow water acoustic technology, ballistic missile defense, low-vulnerability gun propellant for field artillery, avionics aboard the follow-on aircraft to the P-3C, and a palm-sized automated chemical agent detector, among dozens of other projects.