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 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.