US and Japan Begin Resolute Dragon 26 Island Defense Drills

The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force and the U.S. Marine Corps began joint military exercises today to practice defending remote islands [1, 2].

The drills, titled "Resolute Dragon 26," represent a strategic effort to deepen security cooperation between the two nations. By simulating the defense of outlying islands, the exercise aims to improve the operational capabilities of both forces in the face of regional security challenges [1, 2].

An opening ceremony was held at the Kengun Garrison in Kumamoto City, attended by about 50 personnel ^[1]. The broader exercise, which runs from June 20 to June 30, 2026 ^[2], involves about 9,600 total personnel ^[1]. These maneuvers are being conducted across 23 different locations throughout the Kyushu and Okinawa regions ^[1].

Seiji Toriumi, commander of the Western Army, emphasized the strategic nature of the mission during the ceremony. He said the exercise is an important training session that embodies the idea that the defense of the west is the defense of Japan, and he expressed hope that all members would achieve the desired results ^[1].

U.S. Marine Corps Brig. Gen. Ryan M. Hoil, deputy commander of the 3rd Marine Expeditionary Force, also highlighted the utility of the joint maneuvers. He said that what is learned during this training leads to the defense of Japan and the safety of the region ^[1].

The scale of the exercise reflects a continued commitment to interoperability between the U.S. and Japanese forces. By coordinating movements across multiple sites in the southwest, the two militaries are testing their ability to deploy and sustain forces in contested island environments [1, 2].