Japan deploys forces and missile systems in unprecedented Balikatan exercises
Updated
Updated · The Japan Times · May 9
Japan deploys forces and missile systems in unprecedented Balikatan exercises
8 articles · Updated · The Japan Times · May 9
Tokyo sent about 1,400 Self-Defense Forces personnel, around 10 times last year's level, to drills in the Philippines with 15,600 troops from seven other countries.
The three-week exercises ended Friday and included warships, aircraft, a mock enemy ship sinking and counterlanding drills in areas nearest Taiwan.
It was the first return of Japanese combat-capable forces to the Philippines since World War Two, underscoring closer security ties with Manila, Washington and other partners amid regional tensions.
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