Strengthening Transport Capabilities in Preparation for a Taiwan Contingency
Responding to China's Military Buildup
Aiming for Rapid Military Deployment
On the 6th, the Japanese government held a launch ceremony for the "Maritime Transport Unit," a unit specialized in transporting Self-Defense Force personnel and equipment in preparation for a contingency in Taiwan. This unit was established on the 24th of last month, and the official ceremony took place at the Maritime Self-Defense Force base in Kure City, Hiroshima Prefecture, western Honshu.
Japanese Defense Minister Kenta Nakata emphasized, "It has become possible to deploy more quickly and reliably," adding, "The joint formation of a new unit by the Ground Self-Defense Force and the Maritime Self-Defense Force is a historically significant step." The Maritime Transport Unit is the first ship unit managed by the Ground Self-Defense Force. It started with about 100 personnel, one medium-sized transport ship, and one small transport ship. The ship captain is from the Maritime Self-Defense Force, while most other duties are handled by Ground Self-Defense Force members.
This unit is responsible for transport operations between the Nansei Islands, ranging from Kagoshima Prefecture in Kyushu to Okinawa Prefecture, and Honshu. Basically, it does not engage in ship-to-ship combat. The Maritime Transport Unit plans to have a total of 10 vessels by March 2028, including two medium-sized transport ships, four small transport ships, and four maneuvering boats. Additionally, the Self-Defense Forces will work on facility improvements to enable these ships to dock at islands.
The background for strengthening Japan's transport capabilities includes concerns over China's military buildup and maritime expansion, as well as preparations for a contingency in Taiwan. Japan sees the need for rapid deployment of the Ground Self-Defense Force to defend and retake remote islands in emergencies. Efforts to enhance maritime transport capabilities are ongoing.
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