In early fall, servicemembers from Japan, the United States, and Australia gathered at Camp Zama to initiate the trilateral planning conference for Yama Sakura 87, a simulated exercise that has consistently grown in purpose since its inception in 1982. Scheduled for early December at locations spanning the Indo-Pacific, this exercise is a critical component of efforts to enhance the readiness and posture of these forces.

This year, Yama Sakura 87 will run alongside a U.S.-specific simulated event known as a Warfighter exercise. Designed to rigorously test U.S. commands and servicemembers, the Warfighter exercise simulates a dynamic, multi-day scenario to assess the readiness of units focused on the Indo-Pacific region. Together, these exercises aim to build operational readiness, enhance interoperability, and strengthen deployment capabilities among allied forces.

"I Corps, as U.S. Army Pacific's operational headquarters in the Indo-Pacific, plays a critical role in generating strategic, operational, and tactical readiness for the Army and the Joint Force throughout the region," said Col. Leo Wyszynski, the I Corps Director of Training and Exercises and the senior I Corps leader attending the planning conference.

"Collaboration with our partners and allies in exercises like Yama Sakura is essential to ensuring that bilateral joint forces are always ready to respond rapidly and decisively when needed. Large and complex exercises like this one better prepare us all for future challenges."

Yama Sakura falls under the framework of Operation Pathways, a series of joint and multinational exercises conducted across the Indo-Pacific. These exercises enable U.S. forces to project combat capabilities west of the International Date Line (IDL), enhancing unit readiness while also deterring against potential provocations. With more than 40 combined and Army-to-Army exercises under its umbrella, Operation Pathways ensures I Corps maintains forward presence, tests new concepts, and remains postured to respond to crises and deter conflict.

"Exercise Yama Sakura, and really every exercise under Operation Pathways strengthens our ability to respond to potential threats and challenges, while also giving us significant face-to-face opportunities to build real understanding with each other" said Maj. Joshua Larson, a lead Planner for I Corps.

"The professional relationships and trust we build during these exercises translates into real-world readiness, meaning that we can respond when needed."

In addition to fostering interoperability among allies, these exercises enhance the preparedness of U.S. Active, Reserve, and National Guard units. By integrating these components, Operation Pathways activities strengthen bonds across the joint force and bolsters collective warfighting capabilities.

Like traditional deployments, training for Yama Sakura begins well before the formal exercise scenario unfolds, and the logistical movement of Soldiers and equipment from the U.S. to locations west of the IDL is an essential aspect. In addition to the experience and lessons gained through the exercise’s simulation, the logistical feat of deploying forces across the Pacific Ocean allows First Corps to test and validate systems, logistics nodes, and support capabilities. All activities critical to maintaining combat-credible forces in the region. Whether supporting Yama Sakura or one of the other 40 exercises, continuous testing provides a deeper understanding of operational strengths and areas for improvement, helping shape future strategies to address emerging challenges.

"The logistics support we validate during exercises like Yama Sakura allows us to ensure that, when needed, our forces are ready to operate across vast distances," said Maj. Steven Philipps, a Logistician in I Corps and a sustainment planner for Yama Sakura 87.

"This enables us to maintain a forward, persistent presence, ensuring we are ready to deter and respond to conflicts before they escalate."

As Yama Sakura 87 approaches, it sets the stage for enhanced military cooperation between the U.S., Japan, and Australia. Through improved human and procedural interoperability, allied forces increase their effectiveness across the crisis continuum—from humanitarian missions to conflict scenarios. More than a routine exercise, Yama Sakura is a demonstration of the strength of these alliances and the collective commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.

"We are a more combat-credible force when we train together," said Wyszynski.

"Through exercises like Yama Sakura 87, the Warfighter exercise, and other Operation Pathways events, activities, and investments we are building a powerful team ready for any challenge. Our ability to operate with our allies and partners as part of the joint force is a great strength and a strong deterrent."

Through this year's Yama Sakura 87 and Warfighter exercises, the U.S., Japan, and Australia are showcasing the strength of their resolve while underscoring the importance of collaboration in safeguarding peace and stability in this dynamic region.