The Japan–US–Australia 'Eastern Shield' joint exercise began Aug. 8 across
Hokkaido, Kagoshima and other Japanese locations and will run through Aug. 24,
Kagoshima prefectural authorities said. About 3,700 personnel are participating.
At Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Kanoya Air Base, the drills will reuse the
'Tiefeng' medium-range missile system and HIMARS high-mobility rocket launchers
for anti-ship training following their deployment in the Japan–US 'Brave Shield'
exercises in June–July. The U.S. deployed 'Tiefeng' and HIMARS to Kanoya in
June; 'Tiefeng' is scheduled to transfer to U.S. bases in Japan after the
exercise. The drills have prompted domestic concern and opposition in Japan.
