The Defense Affairs department (DEFAT) of the embassy in Tokyo consists of the Defense Attaché, a policy officer, and an assistant to the Defense Attaché. In addition to Japan, the Defense Attaché is also accredited to Vietnam and the Philippines.

The department’s objective is to collect, analyze, and report information of importance to the political and military leadership of the Ministry of Defense. This includes developments from political, military, economic, strategic, tactical, technical, and historical perspectives.

Furthermore, the defense department facilitates bilateral cooperation with the abovementioned countries of accreditation in the broadest sense, including the support and organization of delegation visits, bi/multi-lateral exercises and training, and other forms of collaboration.

The Defense Attaché reports to the Director of International Military Cooperation at the Ministry of Defense in the Netherlands. Additionally, the Defense Attaché acts as an advisor to the Ambassador on defense and security issues and works closely with the other departments within the embassy. The Defense Attaché also actively promotes the interests of the Dutch defense industry.