CAMP Itami, Japan -- United States Forces led by I Corps, joined together with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Middle Army during Yama Sakura 69 to train the bilateral ability to defend Japan.

The two nations came together for the 34th iteration of the exercise at Camp Itami, Japan, the fourth time in the Middle Army area. The weeklong training is the largest command post exercise between the two nations, with more than 6,500 service members combined.

It is a computer-based simulation that allows the staff to react side-by-side to an attack on Japan.

“It’s a realistic exercise and it is portrayed from an operational perspective of what these headquarters would be doing,” said Lt. Gen. Stephen Lanza, I Corps commanding general. “The unique part about it this year is that we actually have a bilateral joint task force headquarters.”

Having a bilateral headquarters allowed for all U.S. Military components to integrate with their counterparts and successfully operate in the scenario.

“We have a Naval component, an Air Force component, and they’re all linked in with their counterparts,” said Lanza. “It really enhances the interoperability and growth of both of our forces.”

The exercise also allowed for the Middle Army to improve operations within its own military structures.

“Middle Army is responsible for the defense and security of political and economic center of the region,” said Lt. Gen. Junji Suzuki, Middle Army commanding general. “We are not only enhancing the ability for bilateral operations but also joint operations with JGSDF (Japan Ground Self-Defense Force), JMSDF (Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force) and JASDF (Japan Air Self-Defense Force).”

Planning for YS 69 was a joint effort, with the intent of having a more real-life training exercise that would challenge the two nations.

“Middle Army and I Corps have spent more than a year for exercise preparation while deepening mutual trust and friendship,” said Suzuki. “We must achieve a victory in the comprehensive exercise.”

The challenging exercise afforded the opportunity to the two services to learn from each other.

“Each team got better,” said Lanza. “But most importantly, it enhances our relationship.”