Japan-U.S. Fleet Commanders jointly visited the various units of the Ground, Maritime, and Air Self Defense Forces located in the Hokkaido area.

From February 6 to 8, Commander in Chief, Self Defense Fleet Vice Admiral SAITO Akira, along with Commander of the U.S. 7th Fleet, Vice Admiral Karl Thomas, jointly visited the various units of the Ground, Maritime, and Air Self Defense Forces located in the Hokkaido area.
Both commanders paid a courtesy call on Commanding General of the JGSDF Northern Army, Lieutenant General OKIMURA Yoshihiko, and exchanged views on Japan-U.S. joint and integrated operations. At the JGSDF 7th Armored Division, they deepened their knowledge of the GSDF's state-of-the-art Type 10 tank, and at the JASDF 2nd Air Wing, they learned about the JASDF's main fighter jet, the F-15J. At the JMSDF unit, they inspected the missile boat JS WAKATAKA belonging to the Coastal Defense Group Yoichi.
Through this program, the both commanders deepened their mutual understanding and friendship, and shared their recognition regarding the buildup of Japan-U.S. joint operations in current situations.
The Self-Defense Fleet maintains readiness and contributes to the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific region, not only for the defense of Japan but also for the realization of a "Free and Open Indo-Pacific" in cooperation with allied and friendly navies.