SDF Joint Staff general says Keen Sword military exercise aims to establish ‘flawless defense system’
![](https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/keen-10122351.jpg)
Gen. Koji Yamazaki, chief of staff of the Self-Defense Forces’ Joint Staff, left, and U.S. Lt. Gen. Ricky Rupp hold a press conference Monday in the hanger of destroyer Izumo in the Pacific Ocean.
13:32 JST, November 15, 2022
Gen. Koji Yamazaki said Monday that the Japan-U.S. joint exercise currently underway “is aimed at strengthening the capacities [of Japan and the United States] to respond promptly to all situations and contribute to regional peace and stability.”
Keen Sword, which is the largest exercise of its kind, began in the Nansei Islands and other areas on Thursday. Yamazaki, chief of staff of the Self-Defense Forces’ Joint Staff, made the remark during a joint press conference with Lt. Gen. Ricky Rupp, commander of U.S. Forces Japan, held aboard the Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer Izumo, which was sailing in the Pacific Ocean east of the islands.
“It is very meaningful to conduct this exercise in the southwest region in order to establish a flawless defense system,” Yamazaki said.
Rupp said that the U.S. will cooperate with other nations while continuing to deter provocative actions.
The exercise, scheduled between Nov. 10-19, involves about 26,000 SDF members and about 10,000 U.S. troops to check procedures for various defense operations and supplies. British, Australian and Canadian vessels are participating in some of the drills.
"Politics" POPULAR ARTICLE
-
Presidential Race for Japan’s LDP Hinges on ‘Change’; Younger Politicians Prepare to Jump In
-
Ishiba Favored by Older Voters, Koizumi by Young in LDP Presidential Race, Says Poll
-
Japan’s LDP Presidential Candidates Time Announcements of Runs; Better to Gain Attention Now or Quietly Build Support?
-
Japan’s Ishiba Announces Final Bid for LDP President; Ishiba Vows to Establish LDP that Will ‘Abide by the Rules’
-
Japanese Government Tells Australia of Willingness to Cooperate in Building Warships; New Model Based on Mogami-Class Frigate
JN ACCESS RANKING