On March 23, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) formally disbanded its long-standing “Fleet Escort Force” (護衛艦隊) and established a new “Fleet Surface Force” (水上艦隊), marking its most sweeping organizational overhaul since 1954.
The reform also includes the creation of a new “Information Warfare/Operations Command” (情報作戦集団), reflecting a shift toward integrated, multi-domain operations.
End of a 60-Year Backbone
The Fleet Escort Force, established in 1961, had served as the backbone of Japan’s surface fleet for more than six decades. Its abolition—along with the Mine Warfare Force (掃海隊群)—marks…