US, Japan hold joint military exercises amid rising tensions with China

The exercise, which was assessed by the South China Morning Post (SCMP) as the largest in recent years - named Resolute Dragon 2021, taking place from December 4-17, with the participation of 1,400 soldiers from the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) and 2,650 US Marines, along with a group of US aircraft, including MV-22B Ospreys and F/A-18E Hornets.

On December 4, the opening ceremony of the exercise took place at the Ojojihara training area. Photo: AP

An analyst at Japan's National Institute for Defense Studies said the exercise was "a direct result of China's growing threat to regional stability." "China is closely watching" the latest exercise, he said. The joint exercise is taking place at the JGSDF's Hachinoe training area in Aomori Prefecture and the Yausubetsu training area in Hokkaido Prefecture, both in northern Japan.

In a statement, 3rd Marine Division Commander General Jay Bargeron said that Resolute Dragon 21 is "a prime example of the strength of the US-Japan alliance, which has served as the foundation for peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region for more than 60 years."

"Through this exercise, the JGSDF and the U.S. Marine Corps will strengthen, integrate, and synchronize our complementary capabilities to ensure our readiness and ability to defend all of Japan, protect our shared values, and protect freedom of the seas," General Bargeron said.

In recent weeks, the United States – along with Britain, Australia and Canada – decided to launch a diplomatic boycott of the upcoming Winter Olympics in Beijing amid rising tensions between China and the West. China criticized the move by Western countries, saying their officials were not even invited. Japan has received calls from activists to boycott the event; Tokyo has not yet taken that step.

Regarding regional tensions, China has repeatedly warned the US to back down after comments threatening to protect Taiwan./.

Lan Ha (According to RT)