Japan Bolsters Security with Osprey Fleet Deployment at New Base

Hiroshima, Jul 9 (AP) — The Japanese Self-Defence Forces have taken a significant step in bolstering national security with the deployment of their V-22 Osprey fleet to a newly established base in southwestern Japan.

The first of the 17 Ospreys successfully arrived at Camp Saga, marking the beginning of a strategic military repositioning, as reported by Japan's Ground Self-Defence Force on Wednesday.

This move underscores Japan’s push to strengthen its military presence amid escalating tensions, particularly concerning China’s assertive maritime activities in the region.

Previously stationed at Camp Kisarazu near Tokyo since 2020, the tilt-rotor aircraft had been awaiting the completion of necessary infrastructure at the new location. The entire fleet is expected to transfer by mid-August, according to officials from the JGSDF.

Defense Minister Gen Nakatani detailed that the permanent positioning of Ospreys at Camp Saga will enhance operations with Japan’s amphibious rapid deployment brigade based at Ainoura, near Sasebo, a strategic naval town. This initiative forms a critical part of Japan’s broader strategy to reinforce the defense of its remote southwestern islands.

Minister Nakatani stated, “The security environment surrounding Japan has been increasingly severe, and it is our pressing task to strengthen our island defence capabilities.”

Camp Saga’s ground forces are integrated with 50 helicopters stationed at Metabaru, another nearby camp, as well as air force and navy units within the region to ensure comprehensive defense coordination.

Despite these advancements, the V-22 Ospreys remain a subject of contention in Japan, particularly in the south, due to prior accidents. A notable incident occurred in November 2023, when a U.S. Air Force Osprey crashed off Japan's southern coast, resulting in eight fatalities. Additionally, in October 2024, a Japanese army V-22 experienced a mishap during a joint exercise, attributed to human error. (AP)

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