The Indo-Pacific Deployment 2023 (IPD23), 3rd Surface Unit, JS KUMANO and submarine conducted a Japan-France bilateral exercise “OGURI-VERNY 23-3” with FS LORRAINE and a F-2 fighter from the JASDF.

On 8 June, the Third Surface Unit of the Indo-Pacific Deployment 2023 (IPD23), JS KUMANO and submarine conducted a bilateral exercise “OGURI-VERNY 23-3” with a French Navy frigate FS LORRAINE and a F-2 fighter from the JASDF in southern waters of Shikoku.
The Commanding Officer of JS KUMANO, Commander SAKURAI Atsushi said, “Through this exercise, we improved our tactical skills and joint operational capabilities between the JMSDF and the JASDF. We also strengthened cooperation with the French Navy. I am very proud that we conducted the exercise with the French Navy, which is an important partner in realizing a ‘Free and Open Indo-Pacific.”
Goodwill exercises and bilateral exercises between the JMSDF and the French Navy are conducted regularly and this time’s exercise is the 13th time in the last 5 years. On 29 May, JS YAMAGIRI conducted a bilateral exercise “OGURI-VERNY 23-2” with FS LORRAINE, too. The JMSDF and the French Navy are strengthening relationship of trust and cooperation through such exercises.
The Self-Defense Fleet maintains readiness and contributes to peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific region, not only for the defense of Japan, but also for the realization of rules-based “Free and Open Indo-Pacific,” in cooperation with allied and like-minded navies.