(Provisional translation by an external company for reference purpose only)
Today, I observed the commencement of parachute drop training by the Ground Self-Defense Force’s (GSDF) 1st Airborne Brigade at the GSDF Narashino Maneuver Area. The 1st Airborne Brigade, as Japan’s only airborne unit, undergoes rigorous training to remain ready to respond to any situation and fulfill its duties on the front lines. Today, I was able to see the series of training demonstrations up close. I myself participated in the jumping training with the brigade personnel and renewed my determination this year to defend Japan, together with Self-Defense Force (SDF) personnel and their families. It was highly reassuring to see personnel participating in this event with high morale and outstanding skill, which are outcomes of their ceaseless training. This year’s commencement of parachute drop training was participated by a record 14 countries, including our ally and like-minded countries, making it an exceptionally large-scale multinational exchange among airborne units even by global standards. This training is the culmination of Japan’s international cooperation efforts over many years since the end of World War II. It was a very meaningful opportunity that demonstrated Japan’s stronger cooperation and coordination with our ally, like-minded countries, and many other countries not limited to the Indo-Pacific region, including Belgium, Thailand, and Türkiye, which participated for the first time. The commencement of parachute drop training is a traditional event to pray for safe parachute drops by airborne units throughout the year. Airborne jumps are literally a life-risking activity that requires an exceptionally high level of skill. The members of the 1st Airborne Brigade conduct these dangerous duties and trainings with all their strength and heart, day in and day out. In 2026, I strongly wish that the brigade will continue to live up to the trust and expectations of the public, and that all training will be conducted safely. When I previously visited the Special Forces Group, I received a request to establish a flexible framework that would allow personnel in the field to treat themselves in the event of an injury. I received a similar request again from the 1st Airborne Brigade. I have already asked the Director General of Health and Medicine to consider the necessary framework, and I have instructed that this be realized as soon as possible. As Minister of Defense, I myself will stand at the forefront of all SDF personnel at all times to protect the lives and peaceful livelihoods of Japanese people, and to safeguard every personnel in the line of service as well as their families. Based on this strong resolve, I will devote my utmost efforts to addressing the challenges. Later, at a farm in Funabashi City, I will meet with SDF personnel who are volunteering at the farm and with agricultural stakeholders. We will exchange views on the significance of farming as a second career for SDF personnel who had to retire at a young age. I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude and respect to the commander of the brigade, the Airborne Brigade personnel, and everyone else involved for allowing today’s demonstrations and events to take place despite the strong winds. That concludes my opening remarks.