TOKYO: Tokyo and Washington agreed Friday to boost joint production of defense equipment including missiles, and expand their military presence in waters southwest of mainland Japan, as China ramps up pressure on its Asian neighbor. The agreement came after Japanese defense minister Shinjiro Koizumi met Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth in Washington, where they also pledged to further cooperation on supply chains including critical minerals.

One deal allows the tax-free provision of ammunition, fuel and other supplies when their forces stage joint training.

TOKYO: Tokyo and Washington agreed Friday to boost joint production of defense equipment including missiles, and expand their military presence in waters southwest of mainland…