Multilateral Keen Sword 27 exercise begins in Japan

The biennial Keen Sword 27 exercise has commenced in Japan, involving more than 50,000 troops from the United States, Japan, and several partner nations, including Australia, Canada, France, Germany, the Netherlands, New Zealand, and the Philippines. The large-scale drills focus on maritime combat operations, air defense, and the repair of bases and infrastructure.

As part of the exercise, participating personnel are subject to a total ban on alcohol consumption, both on and off base, as well as a curfew from midnight to 5 a.m. These restrictions follow recent tensions regarding American troop conduct in Japan, including a recent murder investigation in Okinawa.

Training activities include joint chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) drills at Iruma Air Base. These sessions involve the U.S. Army, the Japanese Self-Defense Forces, and the German Defence Forces, specifically focusing on the exchange of expertise regarding disease outbreaks and biological threats.