Countries in the Pacific region held international military exercises in Australia at the weekend. The tests were carried out especially by the participation of South Korea and Japan in them for the first time. Several missiles were fired during the exercises.
Japan test-fired its self-developed Chu-SAM medium-range anti-aircraft missile at the event, while South Korea brought its 36km-range K239 Chunmo missile system to Australia. According to the Australian military leadership, the aim of the exercises is to gain common knowledge and exchange experiences. Japanese military leaders say similar joint exercises are important for stronger international cooperation.
Japan sent a large number of personnel to the exercises, with 1,500 people participating; In addition to testing their own systems, they have also launched other devices developed against ships. In addition to artillery, military aircraft and warships also participate in the versatile exercises.
A total of 30,000 soldiers from 13 countries participated in the large-scale military exercise. In addition to the Far Eastern powers, Australia, the United States, the United Kingdom, Fiji, France, Indonesia, Canada, Germany, Papua New Guinea, Tonga, and New Zealand sent soldiers. Singapore, the Philippines and Thailand also participated in the exercise as observers. The exercises will continue until August 4.
Cover image shows a Japanese soldier during joint military exercises held in Australia in June 2023. Cover image credit: Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images
