More than 100 British paratroopers recently teamed up with their Japanese counterparts in a significant two-week exercise designed to enhance military cooperation between the two nations. The Vigilant Isles 24 exercise took place in Japan from 15 to 26 January, involving soldiers from the 16 Air Assault Brigade and the Japanese Ground Self Defence Forces’ (JGSDF) 12th Brigade and 1st Airborne Brigade.
Focus on Defensive Operations
The exercise, which focused on defensive operations, was led by the British B Company, 3rd Battalion The Parachute Regiment (B Coy, 3 PARA), based in Colchester. The training took place in the challenging terrain of the Hijyudai training area on Kyushu, where British and Japanese forces trained together to improve their coordination and readiness to respond to hostile situations.
The training began with a detailed review of each nation’s military tactics, equipment, and procedures. The troops then participated in a three-day mission simulating a hostile invasion, with both sides practising techniques for countering enemy forces and securing territory.
Joint Operations in the Field
The exercise included paratroopers from both nations who worked side by side. Japanese paratroopers initially jumped in to secure a landing zone, followed by British and Japanese soldiers landing from JGSDF Blackhawk and Chinook helicopters. The teams advanced through the mountainous terrain, working together to assault enemy positions and recapture territory.
The operation was supported by advanced British Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) capabilities, including electronic warfare specialists from the 14 Signal Regiment who monitored enemy communications. Additionally, Puma uncrewed aerial systems (UAS) from the 32 Regiment Royal Artillery were deployed to provide aerial surveillance and intelligence.
Strengthening Ties and Enhancing Capabilities
Major Iain Thompson, Officer Commanding B Coy, 3 PARA, emphasised the importance of the exercise in fostering cooperation between the two forces. He said:
“Exercise Vigilant Isles is about British and Japanese soldiers training together to be ready to operate together. With airborne and air assault units from each nation taking part, we started out with a similar mindset and skills that helped to create a very natural partnership, both in the field and off duty.”
The exercise was not only about military tactics but also about gaining a deeper understanding of each other’s capabilities and working methods, with both nations benefitting from the shared training experience.
Private Liam Thornton, a signaller from 3 PARA, spoke about the cultural exchange aspect, saying:
“It’s always good to come to a different country and work with other soldiers. The Japanese are very professional as soldiers, but they’re also incredibly nice as people. The language barrier is there, but after training, we’ve been able to get to know each other and find out about Japanese culture.”
A Step Forward in UK-Japan Military Relations
At the exercise’s closing ceremony, Major General Masaki Maejima, commander of the 12th Brigade, praised the success of the operation, stating that the two nations’ forces had “improved our skills together.” He added:
“Based on the results of this training, we will make further efforts to reinforce our relationship and improve our operational capabilities to meet any contingencies together.”
Vigilant Isles 24 is the third edition of this annual exercise and reflects the growing military relationship between the UK and Japan, particularly in the context of Indo-Pacific security. Notably, the UK is the only European country permitted to conduct bilateral military training in Japan, underscoring the strategic importance of these joint exercises in strengthening international military cooperation.
