(Provisional translation by an external company for reference purpose only)
The “Cabinet Order for Partial Revision of the Order for Enforcement of the Self-Defense Forces Law” was approved by the Cabinet at today’s Cabinet meeting. Pursuant to this cabinet decision, Camp Saga will officially open on July 9. An airlift wing, which is currently stationed at Camp Kisarazu and operates the V-22 Osprey, will become a unit stationed at Camp Saga as of July 9. Coinciding with its opening, the plan is to first deploy around one V-22 Osprey to Camp Saga, weather and other conditions permitting and with top priority given to flight safety. The remaining Ospreys will also be flown to Camp Saga in multiple stages based on the camp’s readiness to accept the aircraft. In addition, after the relocation is completed, we plan to hold a ceremony on September 7 to commemorate the opening of Camp Saga, inviting local officials and other members involved. If circumstances permit, I hope to attend the ceremony as well. The deployment of the V-22 Osprey to Camp Saga has critical significance in establishing a system that enables integrated operation with the Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade units located nearby, such as Camp Ainoura, and in strengthening capabilities for the defense of remote islands including in the southwestern region. The deployment is also beneficial from the perspective of disaster relief and the transportation of emergency patients. I have been deeply involved in this matter since I served as Minister of Defense ten years ago. Therefore, I have an emotional attachment to the opening of Camp Saga and the relocation of the V-22 Osprey. As Minister of Defense, I would like to once again express my appreciation and gratitude to everyone involved for all of their efforts. We will continue to make sincere efforts toward the opening of Camp Saga, the relocation of the V-22 Osprey, and their safe operation.