Japan and the United States have commenced 10 days of joint military drills, code-named “Keen Sword,” involving 45,000 Japanese and US troops, 40 vessels, and 370 aircraft. The exercises, which take place every two years, aim to demonstrate the combined capabilities of the two nations to deter and counter regional threats ¹.
The drills come amidst rising tensions in the region, particularly with China’s military build-up and growing defense ties among Washington and its allies. This has raised concerns about a potential conflict over self-ruled Taiwan, which Beijing claims as its own, or other territorial disputes in the region.
Key Highlights of the Drills:
- Troop Deployment: 45,000 Japanese and US troops will participate in the exercises.
- Vessels and Aircraft: 40 vessels and 370 aircraft will be involved.
- Participating Countries: Australia and Canada will also contribute forces to the drills.
- Duration: The exercises will run from October 23 to November 1.
- Location: The drills will take place across Japan, including at the two countries’ military bases.
Japanese General Yoshihide Yoshida emphasized the importance of the US-Japan alliance in maintaining regional stability, while US Admiral Steve Koehler stressed the need to maintain their advantage over those who seek to undermine the rule-based international order ¹.
In related news, Japan’s new Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has warned about security dangers in Asia, drawing parallels with Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Ishiba supports the creation of a regional military alliance similar to NATO, although he acknowledges this will not happen overnight ¹.
