Japan dispatches Kunisaki vessel to assist in extinguishing forest fires in Indonesia

A Japan Self-Defence Forces transport vessel has departed from a port in Hiroshima Prefecture, western Japan, on Sunday, to undertake a mission to assist Indonesia in extinguishing forest and land fires.

According to the Japanese Ministry of Defence, following its departure from the Kure base, the vessel Kunisaki—which carries three CH-47 helicopters—is expected to arrive in Indonesia within one to two weeks, as reported by Kyodo.

This represents the first overseas firefighting mission conducted by Self-Defence Forces (SDF) personnel.

Approximately 350 personnel will participate in the operation, which is based on a cooperation agreement signed last May by the defence ministries of both nations.

Forest and land fires are currently affecting the Kalimantan region of Indonesia.