National News

MSDF anti-piracy mission kicks off

Two Maritime Self-Defense Force (MSDF) destroyers set sail for Somalia on March 14 to patrol for pirates, embarking on the first overseas mission of its kind for Japan. The 4,650-ton Sazanami and 4,550-ton Samidare from the 8th Escort Division of the 4th Escort Flotilla left their base in Kure, Hiroshima Prefecture, after an afternoon ceremony attended by Prime Minister Taro Aso and Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada. (Kyodo News)

Shukan ST: March 27, 2009

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