Press Releases
Japan will host Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) Maritime Interdiction Exercise “Pacific Shield 25”
November 25, 2025
- Japan will host the Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) Maritime Interdiction exercise “Pacific Shield 25” in Tokyo and the sea and airspace off the coast of the Boso Peninsula from December 2 to 4, and a PSI Operational Experts Group (OEG) meeting in Tokyo on December 5.
- The Proliferation Security Initiative (PSI) is an international effort to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, ballistic missiles, and related materials—which threaten international peace and stability—within the scope of international law and national legislation. Specifically, it enhances national capabilities and awareness, facilitates information exchange, and reaches out to non-participating countries through training, meetings, workshops, and other activities. Japan has actively participated since the initiative's inception in 2003. It should be noted that PSI does not target specific states or non-state actors.
- This training exercise will be conducted as part of the Asia-Pacific Exercise Rotation established at the 10th Anniversary Meeting of the PSI in 2013. Participants from Japan will include relevant ministries and agencies such as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, National Police Agency, Ministry of Finance (Customs), Japan Coast Guard, and Ministry of Defense/Self-Defense Forces. Australia, New Zealand, the Republic of Korea, Singapore, and the United States, which participate in this rotation exercise, are also scheduled to attend. Furthermore, observer participation has been invited from countries primarily in the Indo-Pacific region.
- Specifically, we will conduct academic sessions, tabletop exercises, and training at ports and at sea. This exercise holds significant importance, not only for strengthening cooperation among participating nations and relevant organizations but also as a demonstration of the international community's strong resolve to prevent the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. It is expected to provide a valuable opportunity to deepen the understanding of Indo-Pacific nations regarding the objectives and initiatives of the PSI.
- This marks the fifth time Japan has hosted a PSI exercise, following the maritime interdiction exercise “Team Samurai 04” in October 2004, the maritime interdiction exercise “Pacific Shield 07” in October 2007, the air interdiction exercise “Pacific Shield 12” in July 2012, and the maritime interdiction exercise “Pacific Shield 18” in July 2018. Furthermore, this marks the second time Japan has hosted an OEG meeting since the OEG meeting in November 2010.