Japan Mobilizes Helicopters to Aid Indonesia's Forest Fire Crisis

In a significant international relief effort, Japan is dispatching three CH-47 transport helicopters from its Ground Self-Defense Force to assist Indonesia in combating severe forest fires.

Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi announced that approximately 600 personnel will support this mission, marking the first overseas firefighting operation for Japan's Self-Defense Forces.

The Maritime Self-Defense Force vessel Kunisaki is set to transport the helicopters to Indonesia, following a formal request for aid from the Indonesian government. Koizumi emphasized Japan's commitment to mitigating further damage from the ongoing crisis.

Source: www.japantimes.co.jp