Japan and the US will hold a joint military exercise starting November 10, the Japanese Ministry of Defense announced on Friday, as countries in the region are increasingly concerned about China’s growing military power, according to Reuters, Agerpres reads.

The exercise, titled Keen Sword, takes place twice a year around Japan. Around 36,000 people, 30 ships and 370 aircraft from the Japanese and US military will participate in this exercise, which will last until November 19.

„By demonstrating Japan’s and the United States’ strong will and coordination, we aim to contribute to defending Japan and securing peace and safety of the region,” Japanese Defence Minister Yasukazu Hamada told reporters.

Agerpres