UK & Japan hold joint military exercise

The UK and Japan are holding a joint military exercise as the two countries' defence secretaries met.

Military drills are taking place in Japan as John Healey met with his Japanese counterpart in London to discuss strengthening defence ties.

During the meeting, it was confirmed that the the headquarters for the joint UK, Japan and Italian future fighter jet programme will be established in Reading.

Meanwhile, Exercise Vigilant Isles will see more than 100 UK soldiers from 16 Air Assault Brigade, the British Army’s global response force, train with Japanese Ground Self Defence Forces on the island of Kyushu. This annual exercise is now in its third year and is aimed at increase interoperability between the countries.

Defence secretary, John Healey MP said: "With increasing instability across the world, it is more important than ever that we strengthen cooperation with our international partners like Japan.  

"Today, Minister Nakatani and I have highlighted the positive progress being made on our important next-generation fighter jet programme, to strengthen our security cooperation.

"There are many miles between our two nations, but the UK and Japan stand closer together than ever in support of peace and security across the globe."