Flags of Japan-Self Defense Forces (JSDF) and the Full-Dressing Ship of the Maritime Self-Defense Force

A1. For showing where units or vessels are affiliated as well as for reinforcing alignment of organizations and boosting morale of JSDF members.

A2. The representative flag of each Self-Defense Force are as follows.

Since the flag of the Ground Self-Defense Force (GSDF) is delivered only to regiments of the GSDF, it is called “Regiment Flag.”

The flag of the Maritime Self-Defense Force (MSDF) is delivered to vessels affiliated with the MSDF. Every time ships are underway, it shall be hoisted on a stern or main mast, showing vessels belong to Japan.

The flag of the Air Self-Defense Force (ASDF) is delivered to the ASDF.

*Reference: The Rising Sun Flag（TO MOFA WEB PAGE）

A3. Full dressing of MSDF vessels is done by hoisting the flag of the MSDF and/or signal flags on MSDF ships and held for expressing good wishes on National Foundation Day, the Emperor’s Birthday, JSDF Anniversary, days of Fleet Review etc. It continues from 8 am to sunset.

Furthermore, you have opportunity of seeing illumination ships after sunset on great ceremonies of Japan, Fleet Reviews etc. Illuminating ships are done by using white lamps.

On May 1 of this year, full dressing / dressing and illuminating vessels were done for expressing congratulations on the enthronement of the Emperor Reiwa.

*Full-Dressing Ship / Dressing Ship
Putting up the flag of the MSDF on top of each mast（Hoisting the national flag on support vessels）and signal flags on from its bow down to stern.

*Illumination Ship
Illuminating parts from the bow down to the main mast, other masts, lines tying the stern, the ship body, a pontoon bridge, funnels and lines of masts by using white lamps.