New JMSDF Recruits Complete Five-Month Course

Aug 27, 2026 | News On Japan

KYOTO - A total of 348 recruits who joined the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force in April completed about five months of basic training in Maizuru and departed for units across Japan after a graduation ceremony.

The group comprised 235 candidates in the general petty officer candidate course and 113 trainees, ranging in age from 18 to 30. The number was about 1.5 times the level seen in a typical year.

From April through the end of August, the recruits lived together while learning the fundamentals of service in the Maritime Self-Defense Force, studying subjects including relevant laws and working to improve their physical fitness.

Maizuru District Commandant Masafumi Nishiwaki congratulated the recruits on completing their training. "I am truly encouraged that each of you has devoted yourselves sincerely to your studies and training over these five months and reached this day of completion, and I offer you my heartfelt congratulations," Nishiwaki said.

After the ceremony, the new personnel were seen off by instructors and family members before leaving Maizuru for their assigned units across Japan, taking their first steps as members of the Self-Defense Forces.

Source: KTV NEWS

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