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Japan to Start Oura Bay Reclamation for Henoko Base This Month After U.S.–Japan Approval

Following a JapanU.S. committee approval, the project reaches its first full reclamation on Oura Bay’s east side.

Overview

  • The Defense Ministry plans to deposit soil into an approximately 4.2-hectare area enclosed by revetments off Camp Schwab.
  • This is the first full-scale reclamation on the bay’s east side, proceeding alongside ground-improvement works that call for about 71,000 piles.
  • Officials are aiming for a late-November start, with a potential slip to December based on weather and sea conditions.
  • Okinawa Governor Denny Tamaki continues to oppose the relocation but currently lacks effective legal means to stop the work.
  • Even if progress holds, the government projects overall facility completion around 2033 and relocation finalization in 2036 or later, with soil supply and soft-seabed conditions noted as key risks.