That's interesting. Good idea - might as well get some familiarity with the terrain and weather - which is challenging.

The other point from the article is Japan's importance - both geographically and as a fighting force. If there was a US-Japan core alliance - that's not to be sneezed at - though neither is a potential Russia-China one.

Haha - i looked for that Latest Military Deployment page too. That would be cool. Found the Ministry's page ok but couldn't see any link there.

Photo shows Chinese bomber monitored by Taiwan fighter jet in Feb - that's bloody close.