Beyond the Alliance: The Regional Value of U.S.-Japan Nuclear Cooperation

The 2018 expiration of the Atomic Energy Agreement between the United States and Japan marks a critical juncture for the longstanding alliance, one that extends well beyond the nuclear arena. This article argues that a strengthened nuclear foundation that bolsters the U.S.-Japan alliance could have significant ramifications, even forming a cornerstone for further security institutionalization across the whole of the Northeast Asian region. It makes the case for revisiting and reshaping all aspects of U.S.-Japan bilateral nuclear cooperation, from civilian nuclear energy to the U.S. nuclear deterrent and the safety and security structures. The unique standing and resources of both countries on the nuclear issue make both key actors in strengthening regional and global nuclear governance, and in addressing the myriad challenges across the current landscape.