What is the next‑generation fighter program with the UK and Italy?

It is a joint effort to design, test, and build an advanced combat aircraft with shared standards across the three countries. The goal is to cut cost and time by pooling technology and procurement. The Keir Starmer Japan visit reaffirmed political support to speed practical steps.

How does the cyber cooperation affect Japan-based companies?

Expect more tenders, tighter audits, and clear technical requirements. Vendors with strong certifications, incident‑response capacity, and secure development practices will stand out. The Keir Starmer Japan visit suggests more joint exercises and information sharing, which favor providers that can integrate with government playbooks and reporting rules.

What does the minerals cooperation mean for battery and chip supply?

Japan and the UK aim to reduce single‑source risks by coordinating on sourcing, refining, and recycling. Firms that improve traceability and environmental standards should gain. The Keir Starmer Japan visit indicates a push for stable contracts, stockpiles where needed, and transparent pricing linked to quality and security.

What should investors watch next in 2026?

Track the 2+2 ministerial meeting this year, new fighter program milestones, cyber exercise schedules, and any minerals memorandums or financing. The Keir Starmer Japan visit sets the direction, but tenders, technical standards, and supplier certifications will signal where revenue and timelines are firming.

Law and Government

February 01: Japan-UK to Accelerate Fighter, Cyber, Minerals Ties

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 1, 2026February 1, 2026

Keir Starmer Japan visit set a clear agenda for faster defense and economic security ties. PM Takaichi and the UK leader agreed to accelerate the trilateral next‑generation fighter with Italy, expand cyber defense cooperation, and strengthen critical minerals supply chains. A 2+2 ministerial meeting will be held this year to turn plans into action. For Japan-based investors, the pact points to steady demand in defense, cybersecurity, and energy transition inputs, while reducing China exposure and hedging shifting US policy risk.