First Drop Drill 2019 of the JGSDF 1st Airborne Brigade

On January 13th, the JGSDF 1st Airborne Brigade, the only paratroop unit in Japan, performed its first demonstration drop drill of this year at Narashino Training Area in Chiba Prefecture.

This year the drill demonstrated a scenario of defensing small islands and included the first participation of amphibious vehicles, armored vehicles, and JASDF C-2 transport aircraft. Also, following the last year, U.S. Forces performed a demonstration drop with the SDF to foster and celebrate the mutual trust between Japan and the U.S.

Minister Iwaya, who visited the drill, stated that accumulation of such events under close cooperation between Japan and the U.S. has contributed to the strong relationship between the JSDF and the U.S. Forces and expressed the visit of the drill was extremely fruitful.

The 1st Airborne Brigade has performed this annual new year event since 1969, wishing for the safety of the drop training throughout the year. And also this event has been open to the public since 1976 to foster understanding and cooperation on the unit.