Commander in Chief of the Self Defense Fleet inspected Shimokita Test Center, Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA).

On October 19, Commander in Chief of the Self Defense Fleet, Vice Admiral SAITO Akira, visited the Shimokita Test Center of the Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) to inspect the current status of the latest equipment development.
In preparation for future combat, the Self Defense Fleet is promoting research and development of equipment necessary for the JMSDF in close cooperation with the ATLA and other organizations. As part of the effort, the Commander observed the status of a “railgun”, which Ground Systems Research Center undertakes the development, at the Shimokita Test Center.
In addition, the Self Defense Fleet utilizes the test ship JS ASUKA, which belongs to the Fleet Research and Development Command under the control of the Self Defense Fleet, for the research and development of such new equipment. For about 28 years since her commission in March 1995, JS ASUKA has conducted many tests by mounting various pieces of equipment before their installation on vessels of the JMSDF. More recently, the Self Defense Fleet cooperated with the ATLA in conducting a launch test of a long-range ship-to-air missile and a firing test of a “railgun” at sea.
In this way, the Self Defense Fleet is actively engaged in the development of new equipment and continues to build up its defense posture to protect Japan’s territorial land and waters and Japanese citizens.
The Self Defense Fleet maintains readiness and contributes to the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific region, not only for the defense of Japan but also for the realization of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific in cooperation with allied and like-minded navies.

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