Japan troops to conduct nationwide drills for 1st time in 30 yrs

Japan's Ground Self-Defense Force said Thursday it will conduct nationwide exercises involving all of its units for the first time in about 30 years in an attempt to boost deterrence and strengthen its capabilities.At a time when China's maritime assertiveness has become a major regional security concern, the drills of the GSDF, including transporting necessary supplies and improving communication systems, are expected to be carried out between September and November across the country.The GSDF, which has around 140,000 personnel, last conducted such exercises in 1993 after the Cold War end…READ FULL ARTICLE