In October, around 80 members of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) joined forces in Japan for a large-scale military exercise, known as Exercise Keen Sword. This event, held every two years, focuses on defending Japan alongside Japanese and U.S. forces. The goal of Keen Sword is to strengthen cooperation and readiness between allied nations. By ensuring security in the Indo-Pacific region. This year, it involved 12,000 U.S. troops and 33,000 Japanese troops, alongside 40 naval vessels and 370 aircraft.
The ADF contingent in this year’s exercise included members of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). Along with civil-military cooperation personnel, and amphibious landing observers. Two RAAF P-8A Poseidon aircraft and their crews also participated. This added an important capability in maritime surveillance and reconnaissance.
A Range of Critical Operations
Exercise Keen Sword covered a wide range of activities aimed at strengthening military cooperation and preparedness. Troops from Japan, the United States, and Australia collaborated on air defense. Along with maritime operations, logistics, and crisis response, testing their responses to both combat and humanitarian situations.
In one aspect of the exercise, military personnel practiced air defense manoeuvres, protecting airspace. And coordinating with allied aircraft to respond to potential threats. Naval vessels and aircraft conducted maritime operations. By working together to ensure the security of waters around Japan. Additionally, the exercise included humanitarian assistance and disaster relief scenarios, an important focus for these nations due to the frequent natural disasters in the region.
Strengthening Ties in the Indo-Pacific
The joint exercise highlighted the close relationship between Australia, Japan, and the United States. These nations share a common vision for a peaceful and stable Indo-Pacific region. The exercise also showed Australia’s commitment to its military partnership with Japan and its support for maintaining security across the Indo-Pacific. Australian leaders recognize Japan as a crucial defense partner, and events like Keen Sword deepen cooperation and build stronger military bonds.
The Indo-Pacific is a vital region with strategic importance, facing challenges from rising tensions and competition. Collaborative defense exercises, such as Keen Sword, emphasize a united front and demonstrate the collective strength and readiness of allies. Australia’s participation in Keen Sword underscores its role in regional security and its commitment to supporting Japan and other allies in upholding peace.
Training Across a Range of Military Skills
Keen Sword provided Australian forces with important training opportunities. The exercise covered a broad spectrum of scenarios, from high-level combat training to homeland defense operations. For Australia, this event allowed troops to train on Japanese territory and gain experience working on both mainland Japan and nearby islands.
ADF personnel gained hands-on experience, which helps improve their response to potential crises and strengthens their skills in working with partner nations. This is crucial as the ADF regularly participates in joint training to enhance their readiness for real-world situations.
A Vision for Peace in the Region
The recent Keen Sword exercise shows how Japan, the United States, and Australia are committed to keeping the Indo-Pacific region secure. By training together, these countries prepare for any threats and reinforce their shared vision of peace and stability. Keen Sword tests military readiness and strengthens the bonds between nations with common goals.
This exercise also builds a foundation for future teamwork. It ensures the forces are ready to handle different situations, from defense to disaster relief.
By working together in these drills, Australia, Japan, and the United States are creating a stronger defense network in the Indo-Pacific. Keen Sword highlights their joint dedication to safety and a peaceful future for everyone.