The 45th Deployment Surface Force Counter Piracy Enforcement (DSPE), JS IKAZUCHI completed its mission and returned to Yokosuka Base.

On December 16, the 45th Deployment Surface Force Counter Piracy Enforcement (DSPE), JS IKAZUCHI completed its anti-piracy mission and returned to Yokosuka Base.
Commander in Chief of the Self Defense Fleet, Vice Admiral SAITO Akira said, “JS IKAZUCHI successfully completed its mission in waters off Somalia and the Gulf of Aden, as well as information gathering activities in the north of Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman. I felt your strong will to protect nationals and the richness of the sea as you worked in unity, from young to experienced personnel. Although people may not know your single-minded determination to engage in your mission, you are “silent heroes”, and I am proud of you. Also, I am certain your families and friends have been concerned because you have been gone for six months. I appreciate their understanding and support for your mission.”
Furthermore, he presented challenge coins to the best members of JS IKAZUCHI to honor them for their achievements.
The Commanding Officer of JS IKAZUCHI, Commander TANAKA Hiroaki, said, “Through this mission, we contributed to the peace and stability of vessels navigating in the Gulf of Aden and we also conducted various exercises with like-minded countries to deepen friendship and mutual understanding for a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific” I appreciate the support of the families and friends of members and the people of Japan for our mission, and JS IKAZUCHI will continue to work for the trust and expectations of the people of Japan.”
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 like-minded navies.