News
Deputy PM Kan wants Self-Defense Forces to take on more prominent international role
SAGAMI BAY, Kanagawa -- Deputy Prime Minister Naoto Kan said that he hopes the Self-Defense Forces take on a more prominent role in international operations during the Maritime Self-Defense Force's (MSDF) Naval Review here on Sunday.
"The Maritime Self-Defense Force's actions in Somali waters are valued highly both at home and abroad, and have received many words of thanks. As we progress toward a more global society, the sphere of Self-Defense Force activities are expanding abroad, and I hope that they can contribute toward peace and stability in the international community," he said, speaking aboard the escort ship Kurama.
Forty warships and 31 aircraft took part in the review, which involved the launch of a helicopter from the Hyuga, the MSDF's new helicopter carrier, and a gun salute from the escort vessels Hatakaze and Sawakaze. Around 8,000 members of the Self-Defense Forces and 8,000 civilians were involved in the review, which cost 300 million yen to stage.
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(Mainichi Japan) October 26, 2009
