On March 13, Defense Minister Kihara held a telephone conference with U.S. Defense Secretary Austin.
Ministers had a candid discussion on safety measures following the U.S. Air Force CV-22 Osprey incident off the shore of Yakushima Island, as well as future flight operations of V-22 Osprey aircraft.
In addition, the Ministers concurred that they will continue to work on further strengthening the Alliance capabilities to deter and respond.