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Joint Map Exercise on Transport of Large-Scale Support Units Using Civilian Ferries
Objective: Ensuring Swift Transport of Support Units Within 72 Hours for Life-Saving Missions
Tokyo, Japan – February 18, 2025 – The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) announced the commencement of a joint map exercise involving the Japan Coast Guard, local governments, and ferry operators to improve the transport of large-scale support units using civilian ferries.
This exercise is crucial in the wake of recent natural disasters, which highlighted the need for rapid and efficient deployment of support units to affected areas within the “golden 72 hours” after an event. Civilian ferries, with their ample capacity and ability to navigate diverse coastal areas, offer a valuable resource for such missions.
Exercise Details:
The map exercise will focus on simulating the transport of support units from Kobe, Osaka, and Kitakyushu to isolated areas in Shikoku and Kyushu. Participants will utilize the Maritime Situational Awareness System (MSAS) and other communication tools to coordinate operations.
Participating Entities:
- Japan Coast Guard
- Kobe City Fire Department
- Osaka City Fire Bureau
- Kitakyushu City Fire Department
- Tokushima Prefecture Government
- Kochi Prefecture Government
- Ehime Prefecture Government
- Fukuoka Prefecture Government
- Oita Prefecture Government
- Kumamoto Prefecture Government
- Shikoku Ferry Co., Ltd.
- JR Kyushu Ferry Co., Ltd.
- Miyazaki Car Ferry Co., Ltd.
Significance:
MLIT underscores the importance of establishing a robust and reliable transport system for large-scale support units using civilian ferries. This exercise will provide valuable insights into operational procedures, communication protocols, and coordination mechanisms to ensure swift and effective deployment.
By leveraging the capabilities of civilian ferries, Japan aims to enhance its disaster response capabilities and save more lives in the event of a major natural disaster.
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国土交通省 a new article on 2025-02-18 20:00 titled “民間フェリー等を利用した広域応援部隊の輸送に係る合同図上訓練の実施について〜人命救助のために重要な72時間を考慮した迅速な広域応援部隊の輸送の実現に向けて〜”. Please write a detailed article on this news item, including any relevant information. Answers should be in English.
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