Multi-state military exercises code-named "Dawn Blitz" 2015 are continuing off southern California. Japanese and US troops are simulating the defense and reclaiming of remote islands.
About 4,000 personnel from the two countries have been deployed in the drill. 1,100 of them are from Japan's Self Defense Forces. Videos from Japanese media show US "Osprey" aircraft being deployed in the exercise.
Reports said that the landing drill had become one of Japan's most important roles in recent military exercises.
NHK said a special rapid brigade of 3,000 troops is to be launched in 3 years time for such landings. The drill will continue until Wednesday next week. Units from Mexico and New Zealand, along with troops from Australia, Colombia and Chile, are also taking part in the drill.