US, Australia and Japan begin large-scale joint exercises

According to a VNA reporter in Sydney, on July 5, the US and Australia began a large-scale joint exercise held every two years with the first participation of soldiers from the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF).

Illustrative photo. (Source: AFP/VNA)

The Talisman Sabre exercise will take place over two weeks in Australia's Northern Territory and Queensland state, with about 30,000 US and Australian troops taking part in simulated operations at sea, in the air and on land.

Japan sent 40 JGSDF soldiers to join the US forces, while New Zealand also sent 500 soldiers to participate.

Previously, in a speech on July 4 on the USS Blue Ridge warship, Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott affirmed that the US-Australia alliance plays a particularly important role in the context of many new challenges emerging in the world, especially in the Middle East region.

The exercise will last until July 21 and is the 6th exercise between the US and Australia./.

(According to VNA, VN+)