Large-scale exercises involving Japan’s Self-Defense Forces and US forces began on Oct. 19, 2026, with training across Kyushu and Okinawa. The 11-day Keen Sword exercise includes the use of civilian facilities in the region. Type 25 surface-to-ship missiles, with a range of about 1,000 km, were deployed at a training ground spanning Nagasaki and Saga prefectures. At Kagoshima Airport, a Maritime Self-Defense Force patrol aircraft practiced loading simulated ammunition on the opening day. In Okinawa, local opposition has prompted the prefecture to request thorough explanations to residents and minimal disruption to daily life. Source: NHK News / Amami Shimbun
Photo: Fukuoka Now (For image purpose only)
Get Fukuoka and Kyushu’s top stories delivered to your inbox. The Now is Fukuoka Now’s free biweekly newsletter featuring local news, events, culture, business, and community updates in English. Subscribe to The Now
Summaries based on public content, errors may occur during translation. Images credited independently. Send feedback using this form.