U.S. Army Eyes Stationing New Multi-Domain Unit in Japan; Chief of Staff Emphasizes ‘Japan’s Sovereign Decision’
![](https://japannews.yomiuri.co.jp/wp-content/uploads/2023/10/10834019.jpg)
The Pentagon is seen from the air near Washington in 2022.
1:00 JST, October 6, 2023
WASHINGTON — Japan has been proposed as a candidate location for a new U.S. Army unit for multi-domain combat, including missiles, cyber and electronic warfare, the army’s chief of staff revealed to the press at the Defense Department on Tuesday.
Gen. Randy George, who became chief of staff in September, expressed his intention to respect the decision of the Japanese government regarding whether to accept the unit.
The Multi-Domain Task Force (MDTF), established in 2017, consists of battalions specializing in the areas of cyber, electronic warfare, space, missiles, air defense and rear support. It is expected that the missile component will include the U.S. Army’s in-development Long-Range Hypersonic Weapon, with a projected range of over 2,700 kilometers.
George stated that the MDTF is a critically important capability for the U.S. Army and the Indo-Pacific Command. He also said whether to station the unit in Japan — and if so, where — is a decision that rests with Japan’s sovereignty.
George visited Japan in September and held discussions with Self-Defense Force officials. In an effort to enhance deterrence against China, there have been calls in the United States to deploy new units to allied countries in the Indo-Pacific region, including Japan, Australia and the Philippines.
"Politics" POPULAR ARTICLE
-
Japan Ministry Concerned Over Same-Sex Couple Receiving City-Issued Resident Certificates Referring to ‘Common-Law Husband’
-
Japan Govt Predicts China’s Forces Could Land on Taiwan Within 1 Week of Enforcing Blockade; Drills Conducted in 2023 Analyzed
-
Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike Wins Third Straight Term; Voters Respond to Achievements in Child Care, Education
-
Incumbent Tokyo Governor Leads as Election Day Approaches; 20% of Survey Respondents Still Undecided
-
Japan, U.S. to Compile Joint Document on Extended Deterrence; Foreign, Defense Ministers to Hold Talks
JN ACCESS RANKING