(Provisional translation by an external company for reference purpose only)
Today, I attended an event for the establishment of the Self-Defense Forces (SDF) Maritime Transport Group in the Kure District of the Maritime Self-Defense Force. At the event, I presented the joint unit flag and offered words of encouragement to personnel who will be taking on the responsibilities of this new group. An extremely severe security environment persists globally, and reinforcing Japan’s capabilities for mobile deployment to the southwestern region is an urgent issue for the defense of our country. Securing vessels for mobile deployment to the southwestern region has long been a challenge for the SDF. However, the group’s joint operations will now make large transports possible. The newly established SDF Maritime Transport Group can transport to large and small islands, including on the Nihonbare transport vessel that was handed over today. A variety of vessels will be deployed. The establishment of the Maritime Transport Group will enable swifter and more reliable mobile deployment to the southwestern region and other areas. The Maritime Transport Group is being established as a “joint unit” and will play a central role in the joint operations of the new era. The group will be directly under the Minister of Defense. When carrying out actual missions, the group will be conducting transport missions for all SDF services under the command of the Commander of the SDF Joint Operations Command. I expect personnel to devote themselves wholeheartedly to their duties, ensuring that they fully live up to the high expectations and trust that the public places in the Ministry of Defense and the SDF. I, too, had the opportunity to go inside the vessel. Its introduction of high-level digitalization and advanced technology has significantly improved both safety and functionality, while also saving labor. This will make it possible to operate the vessel even with a small crew. In addition, the vessel is capable of beaching ashore or landing on sandy beaches. Landings even on small islands are now easier, which will enable the unloading of vehicles and other equipment. I saw that such capabilities have been greatly enhanced.