Two Japanese defense force vessels dock at Mombasa port
Some crew members of the Japanese force on board the vessels. Photo/Mishi Gongo
Two(2) ships from the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) arrived at the Port of Mombasa, as part of their Indo-Pacific and Middle East Deployment 2025 (IMED25).
The two(2) vessels, the Mine Sweeper Tender JS BUNGO and the Mine Sweeper JS ETAJIMA, carrying around 120 crew members, are on a mission to enhance maritime security and strengthen international cooperation.
The ships are set to stay in Kenya for three days.
Captain Amano Shinsuke, the commanding officer of the JMSDF unit, highlighted that the visit aimed to reinforce ties between Japan and Kenya, particularly between the JMSDF and the Kenya Navy.
"This visit seeks to contribute to the peace and stability of the region, while enhancing mutual understanding and relationships with partner countries," Captain Shinsuke said during a media briefing at the Port of Mombasa.
The JMSDF has been conducting similar deployments since 2021, with this year marking the third exercise. During the visit, the crew will engage in diplomatic and cultural exchanges, including tours of the ships and sports activities with the Kenya Navy.
"In each port, we stay for three nights and engage in various activities such as ship tours, office calls, and goodwill exercises with the navy of each country," Captain Shinsuke added.
The ships' mission, which began on January 4, 2025, includes port calls in Southeast Asia, the Indian Ocean, and the Middle East.
"Our participation in the International Maritime Exercise (IMX) in Bahrain was an important part of our mission," Captain Shinsuke remarked.
He also emphasized that the deployment aligns with Japan's vision of a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP), focusing on promoting maritime security, stability, and freedom of navigation.
During their stay in Mombasa, the JMSDF crew met with Brigadier Sankale Kiswaa, Deputy Commander of the Kenya Navy, to discuss further cooperation on maritime security.
On Friday, the crew hosted a media tour of the vessels, showcasing their operations and contributions to global maritime security. On their final day in Kenya, they plan to explore Mombasa and experience the city’s rich cultural heritage.
JS BUNGO, a Minesweeper Tender, has been in service since 1998 and plays a crucial role in supporting minesweeping operations and providing logistical and operational support to smaller minesweepers.
The visit is a significant step in strengthening maritime ties between Japan and Kenya, with both nations working towards greater cooperation in ensuring a secure and stable maritime environment in the region.
