US-Japan Joint Exercise on Attack Drones
According to a report by Reference News Network on May 24, the U.S. Marine Corps stationed in Okinawa publicly demonstrated suicide drone training conducted at Schwab Base to the media on the 20th, as reported by Japan's Akahata on May 21.
According to the U.S. Marine Corps, the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force also participated in similar training in January this year. Major Brant Wesson, who commanded the training, discussed the necessity of joint operations with attack drones between Japan and the U.S. in response to a reporter's question.
He said, “This is certainly very important. From the perspective of the Japan-U.S. alliance, we also hope to continue joint training with the Ground Self-Defense Force.”
The demonstration was part of drone operation training conducted by the Marine Corps' 3rd Expeditionary Force, using lightweight drones assembled from components, simulating attacks on targets including personnel and tanks.
The U.S. Marine Corps aims to substantively strengthen its drone force in response to regional adversaries.
In the context of the Russia-Ukraine conflict and the U.S.-Israel war against Iran, drones and unmanned vessels have become primary weapons. In the future, Okinawa is likely to become a frontline for "drone warfare."
Additionally, according to Akahata on May 22, a parliamentary group within the Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) aimed at promoting the policies of the Kishida government, called the "National Power Research Association," was established on the 21st and held its first meeting in the Diet. The association was initiated by LDP Vice President Taro Aso, Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi, and LDP Policy Research Council Chairman Takayuki Kobayashi, with former Finance Minister Katsunobu Kato serving as president. The membership totals 347, accounting for about 80% of the LDP members in the Diet, making it a large organization.
U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel delivered a speech at the meeting, expressing approval of Japan's significant increase in defense spending and the development of "capabilities to attack enemy bases," and cited examples such as anti-drone technology, stating that "American companies are ready to provide the necessary capabilities for the alliance," emphasizing the intention to further promote U.S.-made weapons to Japan.
The U.S. ambassador praised Japan's defense policy at the LDP internal meeting, even mentioning the involvement of American companies, which is quite unusual and highlights the reality of Japan's decision-making being subordinate to U.S. will. (Translated by Chen Rui and Ma Xiaoyun)
On May 20, 2023, the U.S. Marine Corps showcased suicide attack drone training at Camp Schwab in Okinawa, with participation from the Japan Self-Defense Forces. This joint exercise emphasizes the importance of drone operations in the U.S.-Japan alliance. Additionally, a new political alliance in Japan has formed to promote defense policies, including increased military spending and capabilities against adversaries. The U.S. Ambassador expressed support for Japan's defense initiatives.
- U.S. Marine Corps demonstrated suicide attack drone training in Okinawa on May 20, 2023.
- Japan Self-Defense Forces participated in similar training earlier this year.
- The training aims to enhance drone capabilities against regional adversaries.
- A new political alliance in Japan supports increased defense spending and military cooperation with the U.S.
- The U.S. Ambassador praised Japan's defense policy and the involvement of American companies.