Japan, Tonga Hold First Joint Navy Drill to Bolster Defense Cooperation
Japan and Tonga have held their first joint navy drill to bolster defense cooperation amid growing concerns over China’s military presence in the region.
The joint drill, which was held in waters near the Tongan capital of Nuku’alofa from Aug. 20 to Aug. 22, involved the Japanese destroyer JS Kirisame and the Tongan patrol vessel Ngahau Siliva.
Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) said in a statement (pdf) that the drill was aimed at enhancing the tactical capabilities and mutual understanding between the two countries.
Japan also conducted its first joint navy drill with Fiji from Aug. 15 to Aug. 18 to boost defense cooperation….