The exercise represents the US and Japan’s unwavering commitment to the US-Japan security treaty and regional peace.
This year, Yama Sakura 87 marked several milestones.
It was the first time the US Army’s Warfighter command post exercise was held in Japan and conducted concurrently with Yama Sakura.
The integration of Warfighter 25-02, led by America’s First Corps from Joint Base Lewis-McChord, added unprecedented scope and complexity, making it the largest Yama Sakura in history.
Over 7,000 service members participated across three nations, six locations, and 17 time zones, reflecting the scale and ambition of this year’s iteration.
Details of Yama Sakura 87
The 10-day exercise aimed to strengthen human, procedural, and technical interoperability among the US, Japan, and Australia.
It featured realistic scenarios and cutting-edge technology to prepare for potential crises in the Indo-Pacific region.
Observers from the Philippines, India, Singapore, France, the UK, and Canada also attended, signaling the exercise’s growing influence in promoting regional security.
CAMP ZAMA, Japan – #JGSDF will conduct the FY2024 Japan-U.S.-Australia trilateral command post exercise Yama Sakura 87 at different locations in Japan from Dec. 2 through Dec. 14.@JGSDF_pr @USMC @AustralianArmy @INDOPACOM pic.twitter.com/FPgw4Nb7pc
— U.S. Army Pacific (@USARPAC) November 29, 2024
Yama Sakura 87 celebrated the longevity of trilateral collaboration and the relationships forged through decades of shared commitment.
A trilateral statement issued during the closing ceremony on December 14 highlighted this legacy:
“Yama Sakura’s greatest achievement is its longevity, a legacy of growth and relationships forged over 40 years between our countries. We look forward to all the exercises to come rekindling these friendships and applying the lessons learned together. Yama Sakura, One Team!”
The exercise concluded with a recognition ceremony at Camp Asaka, where commanders from each nation presented coins of excellence to service members.
The ceremony emphasized mutual respect and the importance of collective security, capped by a gift exchange between the Allied and partner nations.
The Role of Trilateral Collaboration
Yama Sakura 87 exemplifies the growing importance of trilateral collaboration in the Indo-Pacific.
Australia’s ADF played an integral role, reflecting its deepening defense ties with the US and Japan.
The exercise showcased the ability of these three nations to operate cohesively in complex environments, bolstering their readiness to address evolving threats in the region.
Looking Ahead
As Secretary Austin expressed during his visit, the strength of alliances lies not only in advanced platforms but also in the people who bring them to life.
Yama Sakura 87’s unprecedented scale and success underline the continued commitment of the US, Japan, and Australia to regional stability and peace.
The lessons learned and relationships strengthened during this exercise will serve as a foundation for future collaboration, ensuring these nations remain prepared for any challenges that lie ahead. By integrating cutting-edge technology, realistic scenarios, and joint operational strategies, Yama Sakura continues to evolve as a pillar of Indo-Pacific security.
Its legacy—built over four decades—is a testament to the enduring power of alliances in shaping a safer, more stable world.
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