Japan Signs Military Cooperation Pacts With Netherlands and New Zealand

The Government of Japan signed three major security agreements with the Netherlands and New Zealand in December 2025 to expand its strategic defense partnerships. On December 18, Japan and the Netherlands formalized an Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement (ACSA) to expedite the exchange of military goods and services. This agreement followed a pledge by Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof in April 2025 and was driven by security concerns regarding North Korean involvement in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

On December 19, Japan and New Zealand signed two additional pacts in Tokyo. The ACSA enables the New Zealand Defence Force and the Japan Self-Defense Forces to share fuel, food, and ammunition during joint operations. Simultaneously, the two nations entered into an Information Security Agreement to establish a legal framework for the secure exchange of classified data.

New Zealand Defense Minister Judith Collins stated that these deals would ensure the two militaries can work hand in hand with ease to support a Free and Open Indo-Pacific. Following the signing, officials from Japan and New Zealand discussed economic security and the role of United States engagement in the region.