Japan Restructures JMSDF with New “Fleet Information Warfare” Command

Japan's Ministry of Defense on Monday announced the creation of a new "Fleet Information Warfare" command for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).

This move will lead to the dissolution of the Fleet Intelligence Command, the JMSDF’s only specialized intelligence unit, as part of a broader strategic overhaul.

The reorganization will also introduce a new "Fleet Surface Force," replacing the Fleet Escort Force and the Mine Warfare Force.

The new force will include three Surface Battle Groups focused on surface combat with an increased number of ships for greater efficiency, one Amphibious Mine Warfare Group combining mine warfare with amphibious operations, and one Patrol Defense Group dedicated to surveillance and defense.

Japan’s Ministry of Defense stated, “To enhance information warfare response and decision-making, the JMSDF will create a new ‘Fleet Information Warfare’ command.”

The setting up of the new command comes at a time of increased Chinese naval activity and a dispute over control of islands.

Berlin’s April initiative to bolster Ukraine’s air defense has made Germany a key supplier of such systems.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz announced on Sept. 4 the addition of 17 more IRIS-T systems, stating, “This shows that German support for Ukraine is unwavering.” Scholz noted that the seven IRIS-T systems already in use have downed over 250 Russian missiles and drones.

Experts told the Kyiv Independent that, while the IRIS-Ts are a welcome addition, they cannot defend against the growing threat of Iranian ballistic missiles.