JS TOKIWA conducted Interchangeable Logistics Exercise 23-4 with USS BENFOLD.

On July 28, 2023, JS TOKIWA conducted Interchangeable Logistics Exercise 23-4 (ILEX 23-4) in the south east of the Kii Peninsula with USS BENFOLD to improve its tactical capabilities and the interoperability with the U.S. Navy.
The Commanding Officer of JS TOKIWA, Commander OKUYAMA Hirotaka said, “This exercise was designed to maintain the interchangeability between Japanese and U.S. naval forces to conduct replenishment at sea. Under the strong, long-lasting alliance, Japanese and U.S. naval logistic forces have been operating more effectively and efficiently to support mutual front line units.”
The Self Defense Fleet maintains readiness and contributes to the defense of Japan based on the deterrence and response capabilities of the strong Japan-U.S. Alliance and to the peace and stability of Japan and the Indo-Pacific region.