JS TOKIWA conducted a Japan-U.S. Bilateral Exercise (ILEX25).

On 8 June, JS TOKIWA conducted a Japan-U.S. Bilateral Exercise (ILEX 25) in South of Honshu with USCGC STRATTON in order to strengthen the capability of Japan-U.S. Alliance for effective deterrence and response.

ILEX is designed to establish a sustainment capability or flexibility through RAS (Replenishment at Sea), which enables a reciprocal support between the bilateral operating surface assets. Through the bilateral exercise, JS TOKIWA successfully improved its tactical capabilities and interoperability with USCGC STRATTON. The JMSDF and the U.S. Coast Guard work closely in various waters keeping and enhancing our response capabilities in order to respond to any contingent situations.

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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