The Defense Ministry plans to sign agreements with five countries in 2010 regarding mutual support for military supplies.

A ministry official said that an agreement with the nations --- which include Japan, Germany, Australia, Canada and Israel --- would enhance Korea’s ability to provide military supplies and increase exchanges and cooperation in military affairs.

The support agreement covers weapons parts and fuel as well as service and maintenance of military supplies.

Currently, the Korean government has similar agreements with five nations, including the U.S., the Philippines, Thailand, Turkey and New Zealand. Korea is eyeing to up that figure to 20 by 2012.