Gsdf To Hold Largest Drill In 30 Years
Japan's Ground Self-Defense Force plans to stage its largest drill in 30 years to step up preparedness for possible emergencies in the country's southwest.
The plan is in line with the defense ministry's policy to enhance defense capabilities for the region, including deploying personnel on remote islands in Okinawa and Kagoshima Prefecture. China has increased its maritime presence in nearby waters.
The GSDF says the drill is scheduled to be held from September to November in Kyushu, and will involve all of its roughly 140,000 members.
It plans to deploy three units from Hokkaido, Tohoku and Shikoku. Each unit has up to 10,000 members.
Personnel, tanks and food will be transported by ships and aircraft. The activities for the drill will depend on the coronavirus situation.
The GSDF hopes the drill will help to identify issues in personnel dispatch and logistical support when drawing up plans to defend the region.