Japan and the United States have commenced major joint military exercises, known as Keen Sword 27, focusing on the defense of Japan’s southwestern islands amid rising regional tensions. These biennial drills, which involve approximately 45,000 Japanese personnel and 12,000 U.S. service members, are designed to enhance coordination between the two nations’ armed forces.
The exercises, running through October 29, also include participation from seven other countries such as France, Germany, and the Philippines, marking their first involvement. Activities feature a range of military operations like amphibious landings, air and missile defense, mine-clearing, and logistics support, taking place across remote islands including Tanegashima, Yonaguni, and Ishigaki.
Yonaguni, located roughly 110 kilometers east of Taiwan, holds strategic significance due to its proximity to the island. During the exercises, Japan has deployed its Type-25 land-to-ship missile system on Yonaguni for the first time, although no test-firing is scheduled. The U.S. military’s NMESIS anti-ship missile system and MADIS short-range air defense system are also being featured on Yonaguni, alongside the HIMARS mobile rocket launcher on Ishigaki.
Japanese officials have clarified that the exercises are not targeting any specific country but emphasize the necessity of military preparedness and allied cooperation to safeguard national territory and uphold regional stability. The drills occur against a backdrop of strained Japan-China relations, fueled by disputes over Taiwan and concerns about China’s military expansion in the region.
Additionally, the exercises highlight the ongoing debate within Japan regarding the presence of U.S. military bases, especially on Okinawa, where residents have expressed concerns over noise, pollution, and criminal incidents. Despite these challenges, the joint military activities underscore the critical importance of defense collaboration between Japan and the United States as both nations aim to bolster their readiness in response to evolving security threats across the Indo-Pacific.
