Australian soldiers are participating in Exercise Orient Shield for the first time, training shoulder to shoulder with the Japan Middle Army and United States Army.
A 200-strong Australian Army contingent, drawn largely from the 1st Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment and 2nd Health Brigade, took part in the opening ceremony on September 16.
Commanding General of the Middle Army, Lieutenant General Makoto Endo, described Australia's involvement as proof of the nations' strengthening ties and shared values in the current global climate.
"With diverse combined arms troops represented, this unique and invaluable exercise aims to test and refine our procedural interoperability while conducting combined operations," Lieutenant General Endo said.
The exercise builds on command integration achieved during Exercise Yama Sakura in August, designed to validate operational tactics, test combat power, and strengthen vital support functions, including health and logistics.
"The objective is to enhance our operational effectiveness," Lieutenant General Endo said.
Commander of the 2nd Health Brigade, Brigadier Louise Martin, said there was growing momentum of trilateral training throughout 2025.
"After refining our land force readiness, deepening our close military-to-military ties and enhancing the mutual understanding of our forces through Exercise Yama Sakura, we are ready for this next trilateral opportunity," Brigadier Martin said.
'Our strong trilateral partnership is an important pillar of regional security, and crucial to collective deterrence in our region.'
She said Australia's participation in Orient Shield was a milestone, reinforcing the nation's commitment to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific.
"Our strong trilateral partnership is an important pillar of regional security, and crucial to collective deterrence in our region," Brigadier Martin said.
Over 10 days, troops will participate in dismounted infantry assaults, integrated mortar live fire, coordinated sustainment, and medical triage and evacuation scenarios.
Commanding General of United States Army Japan, Brigadier General James Dooghan, welcomed the Australian Army's involvement and opportunity to deepen the partnership.
"The inclusion of Australia in this year's OS25 signals the evolution of our trilateral partnership - a powerful testament to the trust, cooperation and shared commitment across our forces," Brigadier General Dooghan said.
"Every conversation, every shared challenge, every mission completed together strengthens the bonds that make our alliance resilient."
