A bilateral defense pact is an agreement between two countries to cooperate on military matters. This type of pact often includes commitments to mutual defense, meaning that if one country is attacked, the other will come to its aid. Such agreements can enhance security and deter potential aggressors by demonstrating a united front. These pacts can also involve joint military exercises, sharing intelligence, and providing military aid. Countries like the United States and Japan have established bilateral defense pacts to strengthen their strategic partnerships and ensure regional stability in areas like the Asia-Pacific.