Large-scale military exercises involving the United States have begun in Japan

Large-scale joint exercises Resolute Dragon-26 by the Japanese and US militaries began in southern Japan at 23 locations in Okinawa and Kyushu, TBS reported.
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9.6 thousand people are taking part in the exercises. Their goal is to develop and increase the tactical level of island defense. The self–defense forces and the American military of three branches of the armed forces – land, sea and air – will take part in them.

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The exercises are being held for the sixth time. For the first time, ships of the maritime transport group of the self-defense forces, as well as military personnel of the unit serving the new Type 25 land-based anti-ship guided missile systems deployed in March this year, will take part in them.

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At the start ceremony of the exercises, the commander of the western direction, Seiji Toriumi, noted in his speech that “these are important exercises embodying the principle of “protecting the western (frontiers) – protecting Japan.”

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The exercises will last until June 30.