The world needs the Japan Self-Defense Forces (JSDF) · activities of the JSDF Published by Public...

The world needs theJapan Self-DefenseForces (JSDF)

Perfect guide for looking back on the 20 years of international cooperation activities of the JSDF

Published by Public Affairs Division,Minister’s Secretariat,Ministry of Defense,Japan(October 2011)5-1 Honmura-cho, Ichigaya, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 162-8801Telephone: 03-3268-3111 (switchboard) http://www.mod.go.jp

The information in this brochure is as of September 2011

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This year marks the 20th anniversary of the international cooperation activities by the JSDF. We will continue to work actively for peace and the stability of the global community.

A large number of people have been involved in the international cooperation activities that the JSDF has conducted continuously for 20 years. We received messages from two key persons among them.

Our international cooperation activit ies and contributions have received much acclaim from the countries /regions where the activities were carried out. Let us introduce some of the positive remarks.

International cooperation activities described by key persons who were closely involved with the JSDF

Praise for the JSDF and its international cooperation activities from countries of the world

We were feeling our way around but the rewards were enormous.

Tried to arrange the best circumstances for the JSDF members for their best performance.

I assumed the command of the Overseas Mine Sweeper Force in the Persian Gulf. I felt a very strong sense of responsibility, thinking that we definitely had to make the operation successful because its failure would make overseas operations of the JSDF impossible for some time. At that time, our equipment was considerably inferior compared with that of the other countries. We had neither underwater cameras nor computers. GPS to obtain accurate coordinates of mines became available just before we left. In the field activities, the information on the types of mines provided by the troops of other countries helped us a lot. For the first month we continued mine sweeping from sunrise to sunset everyday under the blazing sun, but our men did their job matter-of-factly without making any fuss. Thanks to their efforts, we were able to dispose of 34 mines during the operation period, which was a surprise to other countries. An unforgettable thing is that when we stopped by Bahrain for rest, a Japanese person living there said “We used to feel small here but now we can walk with our head held high.” Twenty years have passed since then. Now, relevant laws have been established. On this point, things are totally different from how they used to be. I hope that the number of personnel who wish engage in overseas activities will increase in the future.

President Gusmão of the Democratic Republic of East Timor

“The SDF of Japan is supporting our reconstruction and transferring technology as a bridge between the two countries. Its activities are highly appreciated, not only by the government but also by local residents.”[His statement concerning the refugee relief in East Timor and other activities when he made a visit to the Defense Agency (as it was then) in February 2004]

U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon

“We are deeply grateful for the Japanese Government, especially its participation in the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti, and would like to request their continuing contributions to Haiti.”[Gist of his statement when he met then Defense Minister Kitazawa in August 2011]

Foreign Minister Qureshi of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan

“I would like to express our appreciation for Japan’s support to the flooded districts, especially to the wonderful activities of the JSDF helicopter units and medical care team.”[Gist of his statement concerning the international disaster relief activities in Pakistan when he met then Foreign Minister Maehara in September 2010]

Foreign Minister Yusuf of the Republic of Djibouti

“Japan is playing the role of a pioneer fo r sus ta inab le deve lopment and an important role for the security of the global community and mar ine transport.”[His statement concerning the anti-p i racy act iv i t ies of f the coast o f Somalia/Gulf of Aden when he made a courtesy visit to then Defense Minister Hamada in April 2009]

Though the "HEROES" of the international cooperation activity are the JSDF members on-the-scenes, Internal Bureau and each Staff Office in the MoD also play important roles behind-the-scenes for the implementation of the heroes' smooth activity.In the international cooperation activity, we are always considering the possibility and the efficacy of activities, and the consolidation of the legal system so that the JSDF units can fully perform their capabilities. Though our various challenges include tough ones, we will try our best for making better circumstances to the JSDF.When the JSDF units are dispatched to overseas, so-called "Bureaucrats" or civil servants like me are also dispatched to the scene. Actually I was in Pakistan with the JSDF units last summer for her flood disaster. I was engaged in the negotiation with many agencies, the selection of the ground base and the clarification of the daily missions for the units. Those assignments were very fulfilling, but very difficult to achieve as well. We use various skills for the successful negotiations, however, the keys in a 20-year-old history of the international cooperation activity are the dedicated efforts and the ingenuity of each "HERO" on-the-scenes.Currently in the international community, a number of missions expect to be carried out by the JSDF. I hope to take on new challenges boldly so that the MoD and the JSDF make great contribution to the peace and the stability of the international community.

Mr. Taosa OchiaiFormer JSDF official who assumed command of the first international cooperation activity

Graduated from the National Defense Academy in 1963. After holding prominent positions such as commander of the 1st Mine Warfare Force, he assumed the command of the Overseas Mine Sweeper Force in the Persian Gulf. Later he served as commander of the 2nd Mine Warfare Force, etc. and retired in 1996 when he was a rear admiral. Received The Order of the Sacred Treasure, Gold Rays with Rosette in 2010.

Shigeyuki UnoAn official who internationally supports the JSDF members behind the scenes.

Deputy Director, Ministry of Defense

Joined the Defense Agency (at that point) in 2003. Engaged in the arrangement of the JSDF units dispatch for UNPKO in Haiti, and for the disaster relief operations in Haiti, Pakistan, etc. from September 2009 to August 2011 as a deputy director of International Operation Division, Bureau of Operational Policy. Currently working as a deputy director of Japan-U.S. Defense Cooperation Division, Defense Policy Bureau.

Military liaison officer of the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-LesteLieutenant Colonel Chizu Kurita

Aiming to carry out memorable activities for local people through sensitive considerations typical of a Japanese person

My duty is to patrol my area, collect relevant information, mostly security information, at villages, police and military outposts that I visit, and report to the headquarters. I visit any place, going over mountains and into valleys, driving roads with narrow lanes measuring only tens of centimeters or bumpy roads that make you bump side to side and up and down. I make a point to create a positive image of Japan by listening to people sincerely and interacting with local people as much as possible so that our activities remain in their hearts.

The United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste

International cooperation activities are classified into six categories as follows according to their content and the law which the activities are based on (Six colors correspond to the activities which appear in the column”HISTORY” on the next page).

International cooperation activities of the JSDF are classified roughly into six categories

Activities based on the Act on Special Measures concerning Humanitarian Relief and Reconstruction Work and Security Assistance in Iraq

Cooperative activities based on the Anti-terrorism Special Measures Law, Replenishment activities based on the Replenishment Support Special Measures Law

Activities based on the Act on Special Measures concerning Humanitarian Relief and Reconstruction Work and Security Assistance in Iraq (Iraq special measures law), which was enacted in July 2003, aim to assist in the national reconstruction of Iraq. Pillars of the activities are humanitarian relief and security assistance activities. The JGSDF and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) continued activities there for about two and a half years and about five years, respectively.

Responding to the 9.11 terrorist attacks in the United States, Japan also started to work for the prevention and eradication of terrorism as a member of the international community. JMSDF replenished fuel and water to the seaborne marine vessels of the nations working against terrorism, i n c l ud i ng t h e Un i t e d States, England, Germany, France, and Pakistan. The activities were continued for about e ight years , exc lud ing a per iod o f suspension.

International peace cooperation operationsThey a re ac t i v i t i es based on the Ac t on Cooperation for United Nations Peacekeeping Operations and Other Operations (International Peace Cooperation Law) that is enacted in June 1992. They are classified into (1) United Nations Peace Keeping Operations (UNPKO), (2) international humanitarian relief activities, and (3) international electoral observation activities. P a r t i c i p a t i o n i n t h e activities demonstrates the ability of the JSDF w h i l e i m p r o v i n g t h e credibility of Japan.

Sending minesweepers to the Persian Gulf

Japan made a financial contribution to the Gulf War, but its contribution was underestimated. To address this situation, the government dispatched the “Overseas Mine Sweeper Force in the Persian Gulf” with the aim of “removing abandoned mines to ensure safe navigation of our ships” based on Art icle 99 of the Self-Defense Forces Act. This was the first overseas real mission f o r t h e J S D F a n d provided foothold for its international contribution activities of the present.

Anti-piracy activities

Piracy incidents that incorporate machine guns and rocket guns occurred frequently off Somalia/Gulf of Aden. Relying on marine transport for much of its resource and food supply, Japan could not ignore this, and sent two escort vessels to the Gulf of Aden to escort private merchant ships in March 2009. In July of the same year, Japan started warning and surveillance activities with P-3C patrol aircrafts. These ac t i v i t i e s a r e highly appreciated in the global community.

International disaster relief activities, etc.

The Act on Dispatchment of the Japan Disaster Relief Team enforced in 1987 was revised in 1992, which allowed the JSDF’s participation in international disaster relief activities. The JSDF is actively conducting various activities using its functions and capabilities with a focus on (1) medical activities, such as emergency medical treatment and epidemic prevention; (2) transportation of goods, patients, personnel, etc. with helicopters, etc.; and (3) a water supply using water purification systems.

Commanding officer of an international relief unit sent to Haiti (4th personnel) Colonel Yasutatsu Adachi

Sergeant major for an international relief unit sent to Haiti (4th personnel)Warrant Officer Yoshihiro Asami

Republic of Haiti

Our technology and discipline are appreciated by the world

Demonstrating our ability in demolition of houses and preparation of land for building

Our mission involves mainly engineering work, such as the demolition of houses that have collapsed due to earthquakes, the removal and transportation of debris, and the construction of buildings. We also conducted epidemic prevention activities and provided support for transporting supplies. The activities in the United Nations missions provide a good opportunity for us to show the capabilities of the JSDF to militaries around the world, and due to the technology and discipline of our units dispatched so far, they are highly acclaimed by other nations as a “professional group.” I strongly feel here in Haiti that with the capabilities the JSDF has nurtured both inside and outside Japan, we will surely be able to accomplish any kind of mission.

In Haiti we conducted cargo shipment and medical support for a presidential election there in addition to engineering activities, such as the demolition of collapsed houses, repair of broken roads, and preparation of land for schools and hospitals.The JSDF exerted such a strong presence that the special representative of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti praised us as “a model for other forces.” I think that this proves the true ability of our personnel in the field, which has been nurtured through their service, education and training.

United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti

International cooperation activities of the JSDF are in progress in various parts of the world. Ten JSDF personnel who are active in the front lines talk about their day-to-day missions.

Now a large number of JSDF personnel are working in the world. Let us report their voices from the front lines

U.N. Sudan Mission Command StaffMajor Masahide Kimura

Witnessed a nation becoming independent as the last Japanese personnel assigned thereAt first I engaged in the logistics planning for the movement and support of our units on mission but now I am taking care of the logistics for teams who are pulling units out from Sudan. On July 9, 2011, the Republic of South Sudan became independent as the 54th nation on the African continent. Staying in Khartoum, its capital, I could feel the excitement of the independence through mass media and other information. It was a precious experience for me. The day I will leave for home is drawing near. I will fulfill my duty to the end.

U.N. Sudan Mission

Commander of Deployment Surface force for counter Piracy Enforcement Captain Hideyuki Oban

Deployment Surface force for counter Piracy Enforcement Commander Masahiro Satocommanding officer of escort ship “Umigiri”

Actively sharing information on pirates

About 200 crew members in charge of various activities work together to accomplish the mission of the first dispatch

Experiencing the importance of connections not only with soldiers of other countries, but also with local people

Detected pirate boats during warning/surveillance flight and succeed in disabling them in cooperation with foreign vessels

Commander of the security team of Deployment Air force for Counter Piracy Enforcement Major Yasutoshi Teramoto

Captain of the air unit of Deployment Surface force for counter Piracy Enforcement Lieutenant Senior Grade Osami Ito

I am on duty to protect marine vessels, including those related to Japan, against pirates. A large number of vessels come and go in this sea area where we still see frequent occurrences of piracy. Navigating vessels are taking self-defense measures such as discharging water but there is no end to piracy. A sense of fear and urgency is substantially high. Nations, including Japan, try to provide safety by sending navy fleets and are advancing cooperation through such measures as exchanging information on pirates. In this sea area far from Japan, all members will continue their utmost efforts.

Commander of Deployment Air force for Counter Piracy Enforcement Captain Hiroyuki Eto

Focusing on the enhancement of the first activity facility in DjiboutiOur mission is to conduct wide-area warning and surveillance using P-3C patrol aircraft, and to gather and provide relevant information. Aircraft must be swiftly landed in an emergency, but the surrounding countries, including Somalia, are in an unsettled state. Therefore, we have the crew start their mission after careful preparation and training. Because we obtained the first facility for joint command of the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) and the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) within the Republic of Djibouti in June 2011, we are stepping up enhancement of facility functions as well. Keeping in mind the encouraging words given to us by many fellow Japanese when we left Japan, we will make the utmost effort.

I am working as a novice commander of the escort ship “Umigiri,” which was sent on its first anti-piracy mission. Regardless of the weather, or whether it’s day or night, we can’t afford to fail in the tense situation. It is encouraging that each one of about 200 members, including those who keep watch, those engaged in the operation and maintenance of engines, those who operate helicopters, and those carefully prepare meals, makes an effort at his or her respective post. Team Umigiri works as one to accomplish the mission.

I prov ide secur i ty for the faci l i ty as the commander of a security team. One of the main features of the security team is that we are working with the staff of local security companies. As a result, not only Japanese but also English, French, and Somali, the local language, flow inside the gate. People here have different cultures, customs, and religions but I learned, through working together with them and establishing communication, that we share the same humanity and can relate to each other.

I am performing my duty as a captain of a P-3C patrol aircraft. We detected small pirate skiffs several times during warning/surveillance flights. Because they were very small, we almost lost sight of them many times, but in the end we succeeded in tailing and disabling them in cooperation with foreign vessels navigating in the vicinity. A tense situation persisted from their detection to disablement. Every time we were able to accomplish a mission, I was overwhelmed with feeling of relief and fulfillment.

Leader of the transportation unit dispatched to the Golan HeightsMajor Keitaro Shido

I feel the deep trust fostered over the course of 15 years

The Golan Heights

The Democratic Republic of Timor-Leste

Off the Coast of Somalia and in the Gulf of Aden

The Republic of the Sudan

The JSDF has continued activities here without any major accident for 15 years, since the first troops were dispatched in 1996. As a result, other nations that dispatch their troops, namely Austria, Croatia, the Philippines, India, and Canada, have nurtured deep trust and friendship with us. This is what I feel here now. I will continue to fulfill our mission together with our friends from these countries who share the desire for peace in the Middle East.

UN Disengagement Observer Force

Anti-piracy activities off the coast of Somalia/Gulf of Aden

1

11

2325

165

4

1413

3

2

26

21

22

24

1881230

10

9

20

17

29

19

31

7 15

We looked back into the history of the JSDF’s activities in the world along the timeline. Furthermore, the active area has been extended around the world, as we can see in the central map (the flags indicate where the activities have been conducted).

We look back on what happened in the world and in Japan along with twenty years history of international cooperation activities by JSDF

The first real overseas mission of the JSDF that was carried out after the end of the Gulf War. Six vessels, including JMSDF’s four minesweepers, such as “Hikoshima,” a minesweeper tender called “Hayase,” and a support vessel known as “Tokiwa.” A total of 34 mines were disposed of in the operation.

Minesweepers were dispatched to the Persian Gulf

1991.4～1991.101

ThTheThe fififi trstrst rere lala oveoverseeasas imismis isiosion on of tf tf thhehe JSDJSDJSDF tF tF th thathat wawass carried out

All the activities started from here.The starting point of the international cooperation of the JSDF!!

Dispatched personnel 511 in total

Headquarters staff and a transportation unit were sent to the UN Disengagement Observer Force (UNDOF) in the Golan Heights where a tense situation continues between Syria and Israel. They are transporting

goods necessary for UNDOF operations, repairing roads and clearing away snow. Now the 32nd personnel are working in the transportation unit and the 16th personnel i n t h e h e a d q u a r t e r s , establishing a new record for the terms of Japan’s PKO.

UN Disengagement Observer Force1996.2～Now5

1992.9～1993.92

1994.9～1994.124

16 2003.12～2009.2

Above : Supp ly vesse l s o f JMSDF provided replenishment to seaborne marine vessels of the U.S. and other countries.Below: Replenishment while two vessels are moving is called “High Line”

2001.11～2007.1111

2001.29

2001.1010

2002.2～2004.612

2003.3～2003.413

January: Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake occurredMarch: The Tokyo subway sarin gas attack occurred

May: U.S. President G.W. Bush declares termination of major military operations in IraqJune: Three Armed Attack Situation Response related laws are passed at the Upper House plenary session and enactedDecember: U.S. Forces capture former President Hussein in Iraq

January: Coalition Forces launch air attacks against Kuwait and IraqNovember: Miyazawa Cabinet was established

April: First female students enter National Defense Academy

June: Wedding ceremony of His Imperial Highness the Crown PrinceAugust: Hosokawa Cabinet was established

April: Hata Cabinet was establishedJune: Murayama Cabinet was established

1991 1992 1993 1994 1995

January: Hashimoto Cabinet was establishedNovember: Clinton reelected U.S.President

January: Establishment of Defense Intelligence HeadquartersJuly: Hong Kong reverts to China.

March: Introduction of a system of SDF ready reserve personnel July: Obuchi Cabinet was established

September: Critical accident at a private uranium processing facility in Tokaimura, Ibaraki Prefecture.December: Rule over Macao transferred to China.

March: Disaster relief dispatch for the eruption of Mount Usu beginsApril: Mori Cabinet was established.May: Russian Acting President Putin officially assumes duties as PresidentDefense Agency moves to the Ichigaya buildingJune: Disaster relief dispatch conducted in response to the eruption of Mount Miyake July: Kyushu-Okinawa Summit

January: G.W. Bush becomes president of the U.S.February: Collision between Ehime Maru and U.S. submarine April: Information Disclosure Act comes into forceKoizumi Cabinet was established.September: Terrorist attacks in the United States occurDecember: Her Imperial Highness princess Aiko is born to Their Imperial Highnesses the Crown Prince and Crown PrincessSuspicious boat incident in waters southwest of Kyushu

March: Introduction of Candidates for Reserve Personnel May: The Democratic Republic of East Timor became independent. It was the first nation to become independent in the 21st centurySeptember: Japan-North Korea SummitOctober: Five of those abducted return to JapanDecember: U.S. announces deployment of a missile defense system

1996 19981997 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003

The f i r s t PKO o f the JSDF produced a lo t of reactions fol lowing t h e d i s p a t c h o f minesweepers.

T he JMSDF ’ s m i n e sweeping abil ity was highly appreciated by the naval forces of other nations.

Three ships, including t h e t r a n s p o r t s h i p “Osumi ” and supp ly v e s s e l “ T o k i w a ” transported temporary houses

Above: Personnel transporting food/storing goodsBelow: They engage in a wide variety of activities, including maintenance of heavy equipment, firefighting, snow removal, and road repair.

Medical officers examined patients in refugee camps a n d p r o v i d e d m e d i c a l s e r v i c e s , i n c l u d i n g 70 operative treatments.

1993.5～1995.131999.9～1999.117

1999.11～2000.28

International disaster relief activities in Honduras

International disaster relief activities in Turkey

1998.11～1998.126

2003.7～2003.814

　　The activity area of the JSDF is spreading all over the worldA chronicle of its international cooperation activities for 20 years

Twenty Years History of the World and Japan

The first PKO for the JSDF. JGSDF sent cease-fire monitors and an engineer unit for the repair of local roads and bridges, and also provided refueling and water services to other PKO units. JMSDF replenishment vessels and JASDF transport aircrafts participated in the operation as well.

Headquarters staff and a transportation coordination unit were sent to Mozambique in southern Africa. While medium- to long-term operational plans were developed in the headquarters, the unit in the field coordinated the reception and sending of personnel, goods, etc. in airports and ports.

JSDF units and liaison/coordination personnel were dispatched to Zaire (now the Democratic Republic of Congo) and Kenya for relief of vast number of refugees who had fled a civil war. JGSDF and JASDF carried out operations such as medical care, epidemic prevention, supplying water, and transportation.

UN Transitional Authorityin Cambodia

UN operation in Mozambique

Humanitarian Relief Operation for Rwandan refugees

ThTheThe fifif rsttrst PKPKO fO fO foror ththethe JSJSJSDFDFDF JGJGJGSDFSDFDF sese tntn ceaeasesee fifirf e me monon

The first PKO for the JSDF　Units from JGSDF, JMSDF, and JASDF participated in the operation Carried out swift and effective disaster relief activities, including medical

support, epidemic prevention and air transportation

Transported emergency aid goods for people afflicted by a huge earthquake who lost their homes. A large number of JSDF personnel participated in the activities

in various fields, including headquarters and transport coordination

JSDF it d li i / di ti l di t h d

Cooperated in the relief of many Rwanda refugees in our first international humanitarian relief activity

Dispatched personnel




Total of 1216 personnelDispatched personnel 185 in total


Total of 1411 personnel(as of September)

Total of 154 personnel

378 in total

The C-130H transport a i r c r a f t o f JASDF , with its large loading c a p a c i t y , p l a y e d an important role in transporting goods.

A vast number of displaced people flew from East Timor to West Timor. Following the request by the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), Japan dispatched a JASDF unit and others. They conducted an airlift of aid goods between Surabaya and Kupang by a C-130H transport aircraft.

Humanitarian Relief Operations in Timor-Leste

A ast n mber off displaced peoople flee from East

An airlift unit of JASDF transported a large quantity of aid goods to help displaced people


H d ff d i i h UN

Dispatched personnel Total l of of 1411 p1 perse onnel((as as of of SepSeptemtemberb ))

Dispatching troops for a long period of time to contribute to the stability of the Golan Heights

Following a request by the Republic of Honduras, which was greatly affected by a hurricane, a JGSDF unit and medical officers were sent to perform medical/epidemic prevention activities. JASDF transported equipment of the unit and conducted other transport operations between the United States and Honduras.

Upon the request of the government of the Republic of Turkey, Japan organized and sent a marine transportation unit to the country afflicted by the Great Turkish Earthquake. A troop consisting of three ships ‒ “Osumi,” a transport ship, “Tokiwa,” a supply vessel, and “Bungo,” a minesweeper tender ‒ transported about 500 temporary houses.

The airlift team of JASDF t ranspor ted 441 tents and 4,475 blankets to the afflicted areas of India.

S ix C-130H t ranspo r t aircrafts airlifted relief goods t o I s l amabad , Pakistan.

M e m b e r s o f t h e d i spa t ched eng i nee r unit repaired roads and bridges while sleeping in four camps at night.

International disaster relief activities in India

Humanitarian Relief Operations for Afghanistan Refugees

United Nations Transitional Administration in Timor-Leste(UN Mission in Timor-Leste from May 20,2002)

Humanitarian Relief Operations for Iraqi Refugees

Cooperation and support activities based on the Anti-terrorism Special Measures Law

Airlift of emergency aid goods, such as tents, to the area greatly affected by a huge earthquake

Airlifted relief goods for refugees in response to the request of UNHCR

Largest ever PKO of Japan First participation of female PKO personnel

sssTransporting humanitarian relief goods for refugees in Iraq using government aircrafts

Provided logistical support including replenishment of fuel and water to the United States and other nations fighting against terrorism



Dispatched personnel Total of 2304 personnel


Dispatched personnel Approx. 320 in total

Following the request by the Government of India, JGSDF organized an aid supply team and JASDF organized an emergency relief airlift team for relief from the great damage caused by a large earthquake in East India. They also provided local staff with technical guidance for setting up tents and transported emergency relief goods such as tents and blankets

Following the request by UNHCR, which was working in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, Japan provided goods such as tents, blankets, and sleeping mats for the relief of refugees in Afghanistan. An airlift team of the JASDF transported them to Islamabad.

Following the request by the United Nations, Japan sent personnel to the headquarters of the United Nations Transitional Administration in East Timor (UNTAET). Later, an engineer unit of 680 members, the largest PKO team ever sent by Japan, was dispatched and it engaged in the maintenance/repair of roads and bridges, maintenance of water stations used by local residents, and other operations

Following the request by UNHCR working for the relief of refugees from the Iraq War, Japan dispatched a JASDF Iraq Refugee Relief Airlift Team to Amman, Jordan. Two government aircrafts transported various goods, such as tents, necessary for international humanitarian relief activities for refugees in Iraq

Based on the Anti-terrorism Special Measures Law that was established in response to the 9.11 terrorist attacks in the United States, Japan dispatched a JMSDF fleet to the Indian Ocean. The fleet replenished fuel and water to other national marine vessels working against terrorism. JASDF supported the operation through cargo transportation for U.S. troops.

Above: JGSDF medical officers provided instructions on medical technologies in Samawah General Hospital and other placesBelow: The C-130H transport aircraft dispatched to Iraq was painted blue

Activities based on the Law concerning the Special Measures on Humanitarian and Reconstruction Assistance and Support Activities for Ensuring Security in Iraq

Important activities that demonstrated Japan’s international contributions through the JSDF to the world


Based on the Iraq special measures law, the JGSDF carried out operations such as supplying water, offering medical support, and repairing schools/roads mainly in Samawah in the southern part of Iraq. The JMSDF transported vehicles using its vessels while the JASDF airlifted humanitarian reconstruction goods, etc., flying between Kuwait and Iraq

Camp ing i n t en t s , t hey carried out transportation c o o r d i n a t i o n t o g e t h e r with Bangladeshi forces. Headquarters staff members were also dispatched.

Humanitarian Relief Operations for Iraqi Victimserrrataatatioioonsnsnss f ffororor II Irararaqiqiqi V V Viccicctitit msmsmsAirlifted humanitarian relief goods using a C-130H transport aircraft on the request of the World Food Program


JASDF formed an Iraq War relief airlift team to help people affected by the Iraq War and airlifted about 140 tons of goods necessary for international humanitarian relief activities, conducted by the World Food Program (WFP) and others, between Italy and Jordan using a C-130H transport aircraft.

2003.12～2004.115

Transported goods necessary for the international disaster relief activities in Irans in IrIrana

Airlifted relief goods to the southeastern part of Iran that was severely damaged by a huge earthquake


A great earthquake in the southeastern part of Iran inflicted enormous damage, especially in Kermān Province. JASDF dispatched an international emergency relief team to Iran. Two C-130H transport aircrafts transported to Iran about 12 tons of emergency relief goods in total, stored in Singapore by JICA.

276

2005.819

2004.12～2005.117

2005.1～2005.318

2005.10～2005.1220

2006.621

2007.3～2011.122

Replenishment activities t o f o r e i gn ma r i ne vessels in the Indian Ocean were resumed with the establishment of the Act on Special Measures concerning Replenishment Support

2008.1～2010.123

January: U.S.President Obama assumes officeApril: North Korea launches a missile which flies over the skies of JapanCancellation of ASEAN Summit due to invasion by protestors in Thailand. State of emergency declared in Bangkok July: North Korea launches a total of seven ballistic missiles into the Sea of Japan. Disaster dispatch for Heavy rain in the Chugoku and Northern Kyushu regionsSeptember: Hatoyama Cabinet was established.November: Government Revitalization Unit “project screening”

March: ROK’s Navy patrol ship “Cheonan” sinks in Yellow SeaMay: Disaster dispatch for foot and mouth disease in Miyazaki PrefectureJune: Kan Cabinet was established.August: U.S.Forces posted to Iraq conclude their Combat missionSeptember: Chinese fishing boat makes contact with Japan Coast Guard patrol vessel in waters near the Senkaku IslandsOctober: Dispatch of disaster relief units to Amami Oshima island in Kagoshima Prefecture in aid of disaster caused by heavy rainsNovember: North Korea shells the South’s Yeonpyeong island

January: Dispatch of disaster relief units to Miyazaki Prefecture in aid of situation caused by the avian fluAnti-government demonstrations across EgyptFebruary: Egyptian President Mubarak resignsMarch: Order for operation of SDF issued for the dispatch of emergency relief units in response to the large-scale Great East Japan Earthquake disaster May: U.S. President Obama announces the killing of Osama bin Laden, leader of the international terrorist organization Al-Qaeda.September: Noda Cabinet was established.

May: A massive earthquake occurs in Sichuan Province,ChinaJune: Disaster relief dispatch for Iwate-Miyagi inland EarthquakeJuly: G8 Hokkaido Toyako SummitSeptember: Lehman Brothers, a leading financial firm of the United States, suffered a financial collapse. Aso Cabinet was established.

2009 2010

June: Seven bills on legislation concerning contingency response measures passed in Upper House plenary session and conclusion of three treaties approvedSeptember: Defense Agency/SDF 50th anniversary (commemorative) ceremony October: Disaster relief dispatch for Niigata-Chuetsu Earthquake

January: U.S. President G.W. Bush assumes office(second term)March: Cabinet decision made on Basic Guidelines for the Protection of CiviliansSeptember: Disaster dispatch for avian influenza in Ibaraki PrefectureNovember: Field training under the Civil Protection Law takes place for the first time in Fukui Prefecture

March: Partial amendment(measures for destructing ballistic missiles etc.,establishment of Joint Staff Office,etc.) of the Defense Agency Establishment Law is enacted.With the creation of the Joint Staff Office, the SDF establishes a joint operations postureJuly: North Korea launches a total of seven ballistic missiles into the Sea of JapanSeptember: Abe Cabinet was established.

January: Law to Partially Amend the Defense Agency Establishment Law enacted(includes change from Defense Agency to Ministry of Defense,and stipulation of the SDF’s international peace cooperation activities as a primary mission)July: Dispatch of disaster relief unit in the wake of Niigata Chuetsu Earthquake September: Fukuda Cabinet was established.

2004 2005 2006 2007 20112008

International disaster relief activities off Kamchatka Peninsula of the Russian Federation

2008.10～2011.924

2009.3～Now25

2009.1026

The United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti (MINUSTAH), which had been deployed in the country, decided to expand its military and police personnel to support the reconstruction after the earthquake. Upon the request of the United Nations, Japan dispatched an engineer unit of the JGSDF. They cleared rubble, repaired roads, and constructed facilities, for example, and are continuing the activities in active cooperation with troops of other countries

Above: Removing pi les of rubble using heavy machines, such as hydraulic shovels, bulldozers and truck cranesBelow: Their activities include preparation of camps for displaced persons

United Nations Stabilization Mission in Haiti2010.2～Now28

An engineer unit has been working to help the recovery and reconstruction of Haiti since the great earthquake

Upon the request of the government of Pakistan, an international disaster relief team consisting of six helicopters was dispatched to relieve the flood damage caused by heavy rains. A JMSDF transport ship and a JASDF C-130H transport aircraft were also dispatched and used in a joint operation. They transported 49 personnel and about 260 tons of goods.

Japan dispatched two JSDF personnel as military liaison staff to the United Nations Integrated Mission in Timor-Leste (UNMIT), which was established to restore and keep peace in East Timor after its independence. They are gathering information on the security situation in each area to observe the compliance with the truce of the armed conflict.

A great earthquake in the South Island of New Zealand caused enormous damage including the collapse of buildings. Upon the request of the government of New Zealand, Japan formed an international disaster relief airlift team. They airlifted a rescue team consisting of members from the National Police Agency, the Fire and Disaster Management Agency and the Japan Coast Guards, for example, using a government aircraft.

T h e a i r c r a f t t r a n s p o r t e d t h e he l icop te rs to the s i te . The e f f ic ien t opera t ion enab led swift activities in the afflicted areas.

International disaster relief activities in Pakistan

2010.8～2010.1029

M i l i t a r y l i a i s o n personnel, including f e m a l e J S D F personnel, are st i l l w o r k i n g t h e r e t o observe the security situation.

The United Nations IntegratedMission in Timor-Leste

2010.9～Now30

The rescue team was a mixed force of multiple agencies and was sent to the afflicted area by a government aircraft.

Transportation of personnel and resources necessary for the implementation of international disaster relief activities in New Zealand

2011.2～2011.331

27

A huge earthquake hit the Republic of Haiti and caused enormous damage, including more than 300,000 deaths. Upon the request of the government of Haiti, Japan immediately moved the JASDF’s C-130H transport aircrafts that were for training in Arizona in the United States, to Florida, where they started their transportation activities. Later, a medical team of the JGSDF arrived at the site and started medical activities. They provided medical treatment to 2,954 patients in total.

International disaster relief activities in Haiti2010.1～2010.2

Provided a swift and flexible relief to Haiti, which suffered great damage caused by a huge earthquake

Above: JSDF medical team providing first aid to local residentsBelow: Cooperated not on ly wi th American and Canadian troops but also with NGOs

Above: Unlike the previous dispatches, not troops but individual military observers were sentBelow: Personnel checking the management condition of weapons

28

A JMSDF submarine rescue vessel swiftly moved to rescue a Russian submarine.


A submarine of the Russian Navy became incapacitated in an accident off the Kamchatka Peninsula. Upon the request of the Russian government, Japan dispatched a submarine rescue vessel “Chiyoda,” a minesweeper tender “Uraga,” and others. While the crewmen of the submarine were rescued by the Royal Navy, the Russian Navy highly appreciated the full readiness of the JMSDF.

International disaster relief activities in Thailand

International disaster relief activities in Indonesia

International disaster relief activities in Pakistan

International disaster relief activities in Indonesia

United Nations Mission in Sudan

Anti-piracy activities off the coast of Somalia/Gulf of Aden

United Nations Mission in Nepal

Replenishment support activities based on the Replenishment Support Special Measures Law

elieief f acactit viv tieses i n n ThT ailaandnCarried out search and rescue of casualties of an earthquake and tsunami in the Kingdom of Thailand and its surrounding ocean areas





Dispatched personnel Total of 12 personnel Dispatched personnel Total of 1542 personnel (as of September)

Dispatched personnel 580 in total(as of September)

Dispatched personnel Total of 24 personnel


A great earthquake and tsunami that occurred off Sumatra inflicted damage. On the request of the Kingdom of Thailand, the JMSDF troops returning from their mission based on the Anti-terrorism Special Measures Law were dispatched there. In addition to recovering bodies at sea, they airlifted other international disaster relief teams and equipment.

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The largest-ever overseas activity in which JGSDF, JMSDF, and JASDF troops were dispatched

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Provided transportation aid by helicopter to the area where many roads were blocked, due to the damage caused by a huge earthquake

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Provided medical support operations, such as medical examinations, in central Java, which was affected by a large-scale earthquake.

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Headquarters staff have been sent over a long period of time to ensure stability in Sudan since the end of its civil war

T h e a i r c r a ft r a n s p o r t e d t h

An air relief team of helicopters was dispatched and a joint operation was conducted by the Japan Ground, Marine, and Air SDFs

Contributing to the restoration and maintenance of peace in East Timor since its independence

A gA reat earthqu kake iin ththe South Ih Islandd fof NNew ZZealand causedd enormous

Our rescue team was swiftly sent by air after the great earthquake in the South Island of New Zealand

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Working to ensure safe navigation of marine vessels of any country in the dangerous sea areas that are frequented by pirates

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Contributed by sending military observers for the stabilization of the region after the end of an armed conflict

Dispatched personnel Appp rox. 330 in total

Resumed the replenishment support activities with the establishment of the new Act on Special Measures concerning Replenishment Support

A huge earthquake and tsunami that occurred off Sumatra inflicted damage. On the request of the Republic of Indonesia, troops were dispatched from JGSDF, JMSDF, and JASDF. It was the first time helicopters were sent for an international disaster relief activity and also served as a test for joint operations, including transportation of JGSDF helicopters using JMSDF vessels.

Upon the request of the government of Pakistan, an air relief team was dispatched to the country, following the huge earthquake that occurred there. JASDF transport aircraft were used to transport 3 JGSDF helicopters, and 3 additional helicopters were also dispatched. Approximately 131 tons of emergency aid supplies, including medical supplies and tents, were transported, and so were 824 people, including refugees and medical patients.

For relief from the damage caused by a huge earthquake that occurred off the coast of the central part of Java, Japan dispatched a medical team for disaster relief, an international disaster relief airlift team,etc, in response to the request from the Indonesian government. Some 3,759 people were examined and 1,683 people inoculated in the medical support operation.

JSDF personnel were sent as headquarters staff of the United Nations Mission in the Sudan (UNMIS), which was established with the end of the civil war in Sudan. “Logistics staff” for coordination of overall logistics and “information staff” for database management were dispatched.

Surface/air units have been sent to protect marine vessels related to Japan from piracy off the coast of Somalia/Gulf of Aden. Escort vessels escort private merchant ships while P-3C patrol aircraft identify pirates. JGSDF troops are also dispatched to the activity facility in Djibouti for P-3C security service and so on.

JSDF personnel were sent as military observers to the United Nations Mission in Nepal (UNMIN) that was established when an armed conflict between the Nepalese Army and Maoists reached a peace agreement. Dispatched JSDF personnel observed the management of weapons and solders in barracks of the Nepalese Army and other places.

The activities that had been suspended due to the expiration of the Anti-terrorism Special Measures Activities were resumed with the establishment of the Act on Special Measures concerning Replenishment Support. In the Indian Ocean, fuel for marine vessels and helicopters aboard the vessels, as well as water, were provided to other national vessels working against terrorism.

In addition to JGSDF, JMSDF , a n d JASDF troops, personnel from the Joint Coordination Center were dispatched

Medical officers of the JGSDF provided medical s u p p o r t / e p i d e m i c prevention services, such as medical examination and inoculation.

U N h e a d q u a r t e r s personnel are not armed. Indiv idual personnel were dispatched in this mission.

Surveillance from above by patrol hel icopters p rov ides a sense o f security to the fleets of other countries as well.

International disaster relief activities in Indonesiaelief activities in IndonesiaMedical team was swiftly formed and dispatched in response to a huge earthquake that occurred off Sumatra



Dispatched personnel Total of 6 personnel (as of September)



Upon the request of the government of Indonesia, a medical team, including three medical officers, was sent for relief from the enormous damage caused by a huge earthquake that occurred off Padang, West Sumatra Province. They provided medical services, including first aid, around West Sumatra Province, examining 919 patients in total.

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