The Japan Self-Defense Forces and U.S. military began the joint exercise Resolute Dragon on June 20, 2024 [3].
This training effort focuses on strengthening cooperation for island-defense between the two allies. The exercise serves as a strategic demonstration of interoperability in the region, emphasizing the ability to rapidly deploy heavy weaponry to remote locations.
At the port in Kagoshima City, Kagoshima Prefecture, military personnel loaded four vehicles [2] carrying 12-type anti-ship missile ammunition and launchers onto a transport ship [1]. The movement of these specific assets highlights the focus on maritime denial and coastal protection strategies.
Approximately 9,600 people [2] are participating in the overall exercise. The scale of the operation reflects the expanding scope of joint security arrangements between Tokyo and Washington.
Local residents observed the deployment of weaponry at the port. One resident of Kagoshima said, "It cannot be helped. This is the kind of world we live in" [2].
A reporter from TBS NEWS DIG said, "Vehicles loaded with ammunition and launchers are now entering the transport ship" [1].
“Approximately 9,600 people are participating in the overall exercise.”
The deployment of 12-type anti-ship missiles during Resolute Dragon signals a shift toward more aggressive island-defense capabilities. By practicing the rapid transport of these launchers via Kagoshima City, Japan and the U.S. are refining the logistics of 'stand-off' defense, which aims to deter naval incursions by making the cost of approach prohibitively high for adversaries.
