In this file photo, Destroyer Squadron 15’s USS Milius (DDG 69) operates in the East China Sea, 30 October. Credit: U.S. Navy/MC2 Taylor DiMartino.

The US Navy and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) have started an annual bilateral maritime field exercise off the Japanese coast.

Annual Exercise 2019 (ANNUALEX 19) allows the US Navy and JMSDF to jointly practice coordination procedures and interoperability.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Data Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

ANNUALEX 19 also helps improve the bilateral relationship between the two countries.

JMSDF Self Defense Fleet commander-in-chief vice-admiral Hiroyuki Kasui said: “The bonds between JMSDF and US Navy become stronger than they have ever been. Our sturdy relationship will contribute to promoting the free and open Indo-Pacific.

“I have strong faith that this bilateral exercise will enhance the interoperability between JMSDF and US Navy, the facilitation of the cooperative response against the contingency situation, and finally, the reliability and the deterrence effects of Japan-US security arrangements.”

All participating units will train in air, surface, and subsurface battlespaces. The forces will practice critical capabilities that are necessary for the defence of Japan.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

The scenario during the exercise will also see the forces practice the response to a potential crisis in the Indo-Pacific region.

US 7th Fleet commander vice-admiral Bill Merz said: “Everything we do in 7th Fleet promotes and reinforces the singular goal of promoting security and stability throughout the region.

“Collaboration with partners like the Kaijo Jieitai protects the peace and prosperity that benefit all countries in the region.”

US assets participating in ANNUALEX 19 include ships assigned to Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15.

The exercise will see DESRON 15 work alongside the JMSDF, as well as the Royal Australian Navy and Royal Canadian Navy.