The Japan Coast Guard (JCG) will for the first time deploy a vessel to Australia, as part of efforts to strengthen counter-piracy measures in Southeast Asia.
The vessel, the 3,300-tonne Souya-class patrol ship Echigo (PLH 08), will be deployed for a month starting from 30 October, according to the Japanese foreign ministry. The ship will be embarked with one Sikorsky S-76D helicopter.
Besides being involved in activities with the Australian Border Force, Echigo will also take part in maritime security exercises with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG).
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“Through these efforts, we aim to further promote free, open, and safe seas based on the rule of law in the Indo-Pacific region,” the ministry added.
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