IN PHOTOS: Japan sends largest carrier to South China Sea, Indian Ocean

Japan has sent off its largest helicopter carrier this week for a two-month deployment in the Indo-Pacific.

The Izumo-class JS Kaga (DDH-184) will sail through the South China Sea and Indian Ocean, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) said in a statement.

The warship, which left Japan last Sunday, is escorted by destroyers JS Inazuma (DD-105) and JS Suzutsuki (DD-117).

“The objective of the deployment is to improve our operational capability and to promote cooperation and interoperability with our partner navies,” the JMSDF said.

JS Kaga is expected to make its first stop in the Philippines early September.

It is scheduled to visit in India, Indonesia, Singapore, and Sri Lanka.

While it was not directly referred to as a patrol mission, the JMSDF said it hopes to contribute to the “peace and stability” in the region.

The JMSDF said it also seeks “to enhance mutual understanding and trust with countries in the region.” /je

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TAGS: Asia, Features, helicopter carrier, Indian Ocean, Japan, Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, South China Sea, Warship