TOKYO: US Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel on Friday visitedthe YausubetsuTraining Area innorthern Japanto observe the Resolute Dragon 23 fieldtraining exercise between the Japan Self-Defense Force(JSDF) and the US Marine Corps.

The exercise involvedapproximately 3,300 US Marines and 4,000 JSDF membersdeployed to eight training areas throughout Japan.

“Resolute Dragon 23 stands as a powerful symbol, showcasing the steadfast dedication of both US forces and our Japanese allies to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific,” Rahm said. “The exercise’s scale, scope, and skill demonstrate our dedication to maintaining peace and stability in the region through credible deterrence. The professionalism and unity displayed by every participant amplify the enduring bond and strength that define the US-Japan Alliance.”

The exercise was thethirdinthe Resolute Dragon seriesand wasdesigned to strengthen defense capabilities and interoperability between the US MarineCorps and JSDF with an emphasis on air-ground integration and live-firetraining.

“Training opportunities like this further enhance an already powerful partnership,” said US Marine Corps Colonel Peter Eltringham, Commanding Officer of the 12th Marine Regiment based in Okinawa. “Our close coordination and complementary capabilities allow us to respond to any crisis as an integrated, cohesive team. We are stronger together.”