Japan-U.K.-India-Norway Multilateral Exercise.

From 5 to 8 October, JS Akebono, being deployed under the Indo-Pacific Deployment 2025 (IPD25), conducted a multi-lateral exercise with the Royal Navy, the Royal Air Force, the Indian Navy and the Royal Norwegian Navy in Arabian Sea. During the exercise, we were joined by the Indian Navy’s carrier, INS Vikrant for the first time. Through the exercise, the JMSDF improved its tactical capabilities and strengthened cooperation with the participating navies and air force.

Security of the Euro-Atlantic and that of the Indo-Pacific are inseparable. Likewise, Japan and UK are reliable and natural partners, sharing fundamental values and strategic interests. The first joint exercise between the JMSDF and the Indian Navy’s cutting-edge aircraft carrier, INS Vikrant was conducted amidst the joint exercise between JS Akebono and the UK Carrier Strike Group 2025, which deepened cooperation between the JMSDF and the Indian Navy, an important partner for realizing “Free and Open Indo-Pacific.” We will further strengthen multi-lateral cooperation by promoting defense cooperation and exchange through various activities such as multi-lateral exercises with allied and like-minded navies.

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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