US, Japan, Australia Showcase Strong Partnership at Orient Shield 2026 Opening Ceremony
CHITOSE, Japan — Military personnel from U.S. Army Pacific, the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, and the Australian Army gathered during the opening ceremony for Orient Shield 26 at Camp Higashi-Chitose, Sept. 17, 2026. The exercise integrates field training, live-fire events, and sustainment operations, strengthens our multinational relationship, and demonstrates U.S. resolve to support the security interests of allies and partners in the Pacific region. Just two weeks after the conclusion of Exercise Yama Sakura, Orient Shield 26 continues the momentum between U.S. and Japanese forces. Leading the JGSDF component is the JGSDF Northern Army, headquartered at Camp Sapporo in Hokkaido. The Northern Army brings significant operational capabilities and regional expertise to the exercise.
CHITOSE, Japan — Military personnel from U.S. Army Pacific, the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force, and the Australian Army gathered during the opening ceremony for Orient Shield 26 at Camp Higashi-Chitose, Sept. 17, 2026. The exercise integrates field training, live-fire events, and sustainment operations, strengthens our multinational relationship, and demonstrates U.S. resolve to support the security interests of allies and partners in the Pacific region. Just two weeks after the conclusion of Exercise Yama Sakura, Orient Shield 26 continues the momentum between U.S. and Japanese forces. Leading the JGSDF component is the JGSDF Northern Army, headquartered at Camp Sapporo in Hokkaido. The Northern Army brings significant operational capabilities and regional expertise to the exercise.
