Overview
- The Ground Self-Defense Force’s 1st Airborne Brigade held its annual new-year jump training on January 11 under an island-defense scenario at the Narashino training area in Chiba Prefecture.
- Foreign participation reached a new high, with reports citing either 14 or 15 countries, and Jiji identifying Belgium, Thailand and Turkey as first-time participants.
- Koizumi observed the drills on site and took part by jumping from an approximately 11-meter tower, saying he renewed his resolve to defend the country alongside JSDF personnel and families.
- A planned parachute drop during the exercise was canceled because of strong winds, adjusting the day’s flight activities.
- The appearance comes ahead of Koizumi’s trip to the United States starting January 12 for meetings with counterparts on defense coordination.