Maritime Self-Defense Force Hosts 1st International Fleet Review In 20 Years

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (MSDF) just held its first international naval fleet review in 20 years, reports the Kyodo news agency (Tokyo).

Eighteen vessels from 12 countries, including Australia, Canada, India and the U.S., and six French and American warplanes took part in the review in Sagami Bay off Kanagawa prefecture south of Tokyo.

The South Korean navy also took part amid efforts to rebuild bilateral ties with Japan.

Prime Minister Fumio Kishida oversaw the event.

The large-scale naval review was held to mark the 70th anniversary of the establishment of the MSDF.