Core Viewpoint - The U.S. Department of Defense expresses strong dissatisfaction with Japan's slow response in increasing defense spending compared to other allies like South Korea, Australia, Germany, and Canada [2][4]. Group 1: U.S. Defense Department's Perspective - U.S. officials have noted that Japan has long expressed concerns about the deteriorating security environment but has cited constitutional limitations as a reason for not providing more substantial support [4]. - The U.S. Defense Department has been negotiating with allies to enhance their defense capabilities since the second Trump administration, highlighting a general expectation for Japan to increase its defense spending [4][5]. - Japan aims to raise its defense spending to 2% of GDP by 2027, but U.S. officials believe this is still insufficient given the current security landscape [4]. Group 2: Comparison with Other Allies - The U.S. has praised other allies for aligning with its defense spending expectations, contrasting this with Japan's perceived reluctance to take similar steps [2][4]. - There is an indication that negotiations with South Korea's new government are progressing, while Japan's attitude remains negative [4]. Group 3: Expectations for Japan - U.S. officials expect Japan to play a more active role in its own defense and collective self-defense, indicating a shift in how Japan is treated compared to other nations [5].

Group 1 - The core viewpoint of the articles highlights the ongoing discussions between Japan and the United States regarding Japan's defense spending and military collaboration, particularly in response to regional threats [1][2] - Japan aims to increase its defense budget to 2% of GDP by the fiscal year 2027, while there are calls within the Trump administration for Japan to raise this figure to 3% [1] - The U.S. Secretary of Defense, Hegseth, indicated that both nations are committed to strengthening defense capabilities and have begun collaborative efforts in command and control [2] Group 2 - The establishment of a joint command structure between Japan's Self-Defense Forces and U.S. forces is underway, with Japan recently forming a unified command for its military branches [2] - The U.S. has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a strong deterrent presence in the Indo-Pacific region, including the Taiwan Strait, in light of aggressive actions from China [2] - Both countries have agreed to advance joint production of defense equipment, including a consensus to start producing the AMRAAM medium-range air-to-air missile and discussions on incorporating the new SM6 missile into their cooperation [2]