HMAS Sydney arrived in Japan for a short break and maintenance period in Yokosuka at the midpoint of its Indo-Pacific deployment.
During the official welcome ceremony, Commanding Officer of the host ship JS Izumo Captain Ishidera Takahiko, of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), toured the Australian destroyer and presented a commemorative plaque to Sydney’s Commanding Officer, Commander Ben Weller.
The ceremony, held at Yokosuka on a rainy June day, wasn’t dampened by the weather. The atmosphere remained warm, reflecting the strong relationship between the two navies.
“The Australian-Japanese relationship is one of our most important in the region,” Commander Weller said.
“We have a long history of working closely together, and we value that partnership.”
Captain Ishidera echoed those thoughts.
“I would like to deepen our trust as a good partner,” he said.
In addition to the formalities, members of the JMSDF and Japanese media were invited on board Sydney for a tour of the Australian warship.
‘We’re aligned in our values for democracy, free trade and supporting the rules-based global order.’
“Our people-to-people links are important and we welcome chances like this to better understand each other’s priorities and capabilities,” Commander Weller said.
Australia and Japan, both maritime nations, share a commitment to upholding freedom of navigation and trade across the region.
“We’re aligned in our values for democracy, free trade and supporting the rules-based global order,” Commander Weller said.
“That’s why it’s so important we continue training with the JMSDF, so we’re ready to meet any challenge in the Indo-Pacific together.”
As a token of appreciation, Captain Ishidera received a personalised cricket bat, ship’s coins and a unit patch from Sydney.
“The JMSDF is one of the most professional naval forces in the world,” Commander Weller said.
“It’s always a privilege to work with like-minded partners to protect and preserve stability in our region.”
Sydney is a Hobart-class air warfare destroyer. It has about 240 crew and carries an MH-60R helicopter.
The ship is on an Indo-Pacific deployment, participating in regional exercises and engagements with partners including Malaysia, the Philippines, the United Kingdom and the United States.
