Key Facts
• Japan’s largest US-Japan joint training, ‘Resolute Dragon,’ was opened to the press.
• Training simulates island defense and strengthens Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) and US Marine Corps collaboration.
• Approximately 300 JGSDF personnel and 100 US military personnel participated in live-fire exercises.
• On September 15, drills included using 6-kilometer-range howitzers to block enemy advances.
• The training focuses on refining roles and command systems for potential East Asia crises.
• 2nd Lt. Sarah Bobrowski of the 12th Marine Littoral Regiment highlighted the training’s role in enhancing US-Japan cooperation.
• The exercise, in its third year, runs until September 25 at Hijudai and Jumonjibaru training grounds.
Summary
The ‘Resolute Dragon’ joint training, Japan’s largest collaboration with the US, aims to bolster defense capabilities in East Asia amid rising tensions. This year marks the third iteration of the exercise, which focuses on island defense and enhancing coordination between the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and the US Marine Corps. Approximately 300 Japanese and 100 US personnel participated in live-fire drills, including the use of 6-kilometer-range howitzers. The training, running until September 25, emphasizes refining roles and command systems to prepare for potential regional crises. US Marine 2nd Lt. Sarah Bobrowski praised the exercise as a vital opportunity to strengthen bilateral cooperation.
