TOKYO: Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force said Wednesday that its Mashu replenishment vessel and the French navy frigate Surcouf conducted a joint replenishment exercise in waters off the southernmost Japan prefecture of Okinawa on Tuesday.
The drill was apparently intended to demonstrate the Japan-France defense cooperation and keep a check on China, which has been boosting its maritime presence.
Japan’s Ground SDF, the French army and the US Marine Corps are slated to carry out week-long joint exercises in the Kyushu region of southwestern Japan from Tuesday.
The MSDF and the French navy are also considering holding joint drills.
JIJI Press