Japan's Chief of Staff Takes a Step Forward for Military Cooperation and Strategic Security

(To Army Majority State)
16/01/25

The Chief of Staff of the Army, Lieutenant General Carmine Masiello, concluded a visit to Japan a few days ago, aimed at deepening mutual knowledge of the military apparatus and developing collaboration in strategic areas such as training, communication systems and C4I.

During his visit, the Chief of Staff attended a formal wreath-laying ceremony at the Japan Ground Self Defense Force (JGSDF) Ichigaya Base on the first day, followed by a rendering of honors. Official meetings were held with JGSDF Chief of Staff General Yasunori Morishita and Joint Chief of Staff General Yoshihide Yoshida, where issues of mutual interest were discussed.

A further meeting took place with Kazuhiro Kobayashi, parliamentary vice-minister of defense, to explore opportunities for bilateral cooperation.

During the talks, various areas of cooperation were addressed, including exercises and training activities in the fields of air troops, mountain warfare, amphibious operations, cyber defense and CBRN (Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear).

The Chief of the SME, stressing the importance of joint exercises for strengthening operational capabilities and interoperability between the Armed Forces, said: “Strategic dialogue, bilateral cooperation in the field of Defense and mutual knowledge are crucial factors for the security of each single partner nation. The time has come to take the first step towards interoperability between the two Armies”.

Over the next two days, Lieutenant General Carmine Masiello visited “Camp Narashino,” where he attended a briefing by Maj. Gen. Junya Wakamatsu, commander of the 1stst airborne brigade and the “New Year Jump 25” exercise.

"Interoperability has a strategic role of deterrence and security, at the service of peace. The paratrooper units guarantee the ability to respond immediately to any emergency and crisis situation, which require projecting force devices capable of operating in any area of ​​confrontation", these are the words with which the Chief of Staff of the Italian Army concluded his visit to Japan.

This meeting represents a significant step towards an increasingly close collaboration between Italy and Japan, responding to global challenges and promoting security and stability in the region.