Seen here in this AFP photo are the first Japanese troops on Philippine soil since 1945. This small contingent of Japanese Ground Self Defense Forces (JGSDF) which included four armored vehicles was there to participate in a series of military exercises that involved both American and Philippine forces. While only fifty in number unarmed, their support role plays a host of both practical and symbolic purposes that will likely draw the ire of Beijing.
The operation code-named Kamandag (Venom), is as reported from American military sources are in no way aimed at China which has engaged the entire international community with its military buildup in the South China Seas.
Japan's Major Koki Inoue is quoted as saying: "Our purpose is to improve
our operational capability and this is a good opportunity for us to
improve our humanitarian assistance and disaster relief training."
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment