Key Facts
• April 11: Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi visits Gotemba City, Shizuoka.
• Meeting held with local leaders regarding planned rocket system training.
• Training involves High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) crossing National Route 469.
• 2025 training was a one-time event; government proposes multiple sessions in May 2026.
• Minister Koizumi acknowledges residents’ safety and lifestyle concerns as natural.
• Government explains necessity due to severe security environment.
• Gotemba Mayor Masami Katsumata values direct, sincere responses from Defense Minister.
• Final decision on training expected at May 20 meeting.
Summary
On April 11, 2026, Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi met with local officials in Gotemba City, Shizuoka, to discuss plans for repeated firing exercises using the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) that cross National Route 469 at the East Fuji Training Area. The government intends to conduct multiple training sessions in May 2026, following a one-time exercise in 2025. Minister Koizumi expressed understanding of the residents’ concerns about safety and daily life disruptions caused by road closures during the exercises. The government emphasized the importance of these drills amid a challenging security environment. Gotemba’s mayor appreciated the minister’s direct and earnest explanations. The final decision on whether to proceed with the training will be made at a meeting scheduled for May 20, 2026.
