JS KAGA and JS AKIZUKI conducted a Japan-U.S.-France trilateral exercise.

During 10-18 February, JS Kaga under Commander, Escort Flotilla 4 (CCF4) and JS Akizuki conducted a Japan-U.S.-France trilateral exercise (Pacific Steller) with USS Carl Vinson, FS Charles de Gaulle and the other assets in eastern sea and airspace of the Philippines.

RADM NATSUI Takashi, Commander, Escort Flotilla 4 (CCF4) said, “The JMSDF will contribute to the peace and stability of the Indo-Pacific region with U.S. as the ally and France as a reliable and inevitable partner by maintaining and strengthening the maritime order under rules-based order upholding the right of freedom of navigation and overflight as well as to realize Free and Open Indo-Pacific.”

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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