As the US struggles with geopolitical threats across the world, close ally Japan has stepped up to bolster US defences in the Indo-Pacific region. Tokyo has stepped up as a trusted defence partner but its cyber and information security vulnerabilities remain a concern for allies. Japan has suffered high-profile hacks in recent years and allies are concerned whether Tokyo can fully support its security partners. The US has said Japan's "ability to adequately protect sensitive data and information" would be considered when identifying collaboration opportunities. Meanwhile, Tokyo’s recently relaxed rules on defence exports has bolstered expectations that Japan can step up international collaboration on defence projects.