Japan, US to cooperate in missile defense

Japan and the United States will sign an exchange of notes that covers issues regarding bilateral technological cooperation on the missile defense system, Japanese Defense Agency Director General Yoshinori Ono said Tuesday.

"Preparations are underway to conclude an exchange of notes on Japan-US cooperation on ballistic missile defense and it will be signed through the Foreign Ministry," Ono told reporters at a newsconference.

After the exchange of notes is signed, Ono is expected to conclude, as early as within the week, a memorandum of understanding with US Ambassador to Japan Howard Baker that would stipulate details on the cooperation.

Until now, Japan has signed exchanges of notes with the United States on each case of military technology transfer. The government is believed to be aiming for more efficient cooperation by signing a comprehensive exchange of notes.

The two countries are expected to begin technological research to upgrade Aegis vessel radar systems that use Japanese semiconductors after the new documents are signed, according to sources familiar with the research.

Last Friday, Japan announced a relaxation of its arms exports control policy to enable sales of missile defense components to the United States when joint research proceeds to the development and production stages.

Japan decided in 1998 to engage in joint research with the United States on missile defense after North Korea fired a ballistic missile over Japan that year. The Cabinet decided in December last year to introduce a missile defense system.

Japan plans to deploy the missile defense system in fiscal 2007.