The participation of personnel from Japan's Ground Self-Defence Force (pictured) in the Australia-US drill comes amid high tensions in the Asia-Pacific region. (US Military, file photo)
ABC News (Australia): South China Sea dispute: Japan to participate in Australia-US Talisman Sabre military drill for first time
Japanese troops will take part in a major US-Australian military exercise for the first time in July, as Washington looks to bolster links among its allies in the face of an increasingly assertive China.
Japan's Ground Self-Defence Force (JGSDF) — its army — will send 40 personnel to participate in Talisman Sabre, a two-yearly drill that begins on July 7 which will involve around 27,000 servicemen, a spokesman told AFP.
"We will participate in joint exercises with the US Marines rather than operating directly with the Australian military," he said.
But the participation was seen as part of efforts to strengthen defence ties between Japan and Australia, he added.
The drill, which takes place in Australia, is intended to "improve tactical expertise in amphibian operations and to strengthen Japan-US interoperability", an army statement said.
More News On Japan, Australia, And The U.S. Launching Joint War Games In July
Japan to join U.S., Australia war games amid growing China tensions - Reuters
Japan to participate in US-Australia military exercise in South China Sea amid tensions -- IBTimes
Japan joins US-Australian military exercise in July for first time -- The Guardian
A First: Japan to Join US-Australia Military Exercise -- Ankit Panda, The Diplomat
