Regarding the Maritime Self-Defense Force's escort ship in the Seto Inland Sea off the coast of Yamaguchi Prefecture, where a propeller failed and was unable to navigate on its own, Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno said, ``We take it very seriously, as it entails great danger.'' I showed a policy to proceed with the investigation.

After noon on the 10th, the Maritime Self-Defense Force's escort ship "Inazuma" was sailing in the Seto Inland Sea off the coast of Suo-Oshima in Yamaguchi Prefecture, when the propeller broke down and it became unable to navigate on its own.

Regarding this, Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno said at a press conference that he had received a report that there was no damage to other ships or crew members sailing in the vicinity, but in the waters where the spilled oil was being prevented from spreading and recovery work was being carried out. In addition to continuing, we explained that we are also coordinating the transfer of Inazuma to the shipyard.



On top of that, he said, "We take it seriously because it entails great danger. Regarding the cause and safety measures for the escort ship, the Japan Coast Guard is investigating, and the accident investigation committee set up in the Maritime Staff Office has decided to clarify the facts. An investigation will be conducted," he said.