The Self Defense Fleet conducted a multilateral exercise “Annual Exercise 2023”.

From November 10 to 20, the Self Defense Fleet conducted a multilateral exercise “Annual Exercise 2023”.
Under the scenario of conflict situations ranging from gray zone to armed attack situations, we practiced commander’s tactical decision making and unit employment procedures to enhance the JMSDF’s mission operating capability. Moreover, through various tactical exercises with other forces including U.S., Australian, Canadian Forces and Philippine Navy, which was participating for the first time as an observer, each JMSDF surface unit improved its tactical capability and interoperability, and strengthened the relationship with the U.S., Australian, Canadian, and the Philippine forces. For building multilateral security arrangements and creating security environment that does not tolerate any unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force, we will continue strengthening readiness and cooperation with allied and like-minded nations that have common values with us.
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 a Free and Open Indo-Pacific in cooperation with allied and like-minded navies.