A joint training exercise between the Ground Self-Defense Force and the US Marine Corps, which assumes the defense of remote islands, was held in Kagoshima Prefecture on the 3rd, and part of it was open to the public.

A total of 1,700 people, including the Ground Self-Defense Force and the US Marine Corps stationed in Okinawa, participated in this joint exercise, which has been held in Kyushu and Okinawa since the 16th of last month. it was done.



It was carried out on the assumption that Japan and the United States would jointly recapture the invaded remote islands. Of these, on Tokunoshima, more than 200 Japanese and American personnel from ships anchored offshore used boats and amphibious vehicles, one after another. After landing on the beach, I was vigilant about my surroundings with a rifle in my hand.

In addition, about 100 members of the Self-Defense Forces parachuted to the ground from a transport plane flying over Kikaijima.



This joint exercise, which started in 2006 to strengthen the defense posture of the remote islands, has been conducted in the United States until now, but this time it will be the first time as the activities of the Chinese military intensify around the Nansei Islands. It is done in Japan.



Shingo Nashiki, commander of the Ground Self-Defense Force's Amphibious Rapid Deployment Brigade, held a press conference after the training. However, I think it will contribute to the stability of our country and the surrounding region."



3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade Commander Frederickson said, "We welcome the intention of the Self-Defense Forces to conduct this training at various facilities in Japan. We look forward to the opportunity to continue to grow with our partners." said.



The joint training will end on the 12th of this month, and landing training and other training will be held in Okinawa Prefecture in the future.

Tokunoshima, the training ground, what residents say

A woman in her 80s who came to see the drills held in Tokunoshima said, "I'm afraid the US military will come. My house is near the sea, so if anything happens, I think I'll be the first to be targeted." rice field.



Also, a man in his 60s said, ``I think that deterrence is necessary considering the current international situation, but if something like Ukraine happens, this place will become a battlefield, and I have mixed feelings.''

The reaction of the residents of Kikaijima, the training ground

On Kikaijima, many local people were watching the training.



Among them, a woman in her twenties said, "I'm worried about the training, but I think I'll be protected in case of emergency."



A man in his 60s said, "I was surprised to hear that the training will be conducted with the US military. I hope that Kikaijima will not be used as a battlefield."



Near the site, citizens' groups were seen raising banners and placards to oppose the training.