U.S. plans to deploy large helicopter unit to Iwakuni Base

The U.S. Forces in Japan are planning to deploy a unit of large helicopters to the U.S. Marine Corps Iwakuni Air Station in Yamaguchi Prefecture on the grounds that it is necessary to be able to cope with possible terrorist attacks,

The U.S. plans to attach large transport CH53D helicopters to the Iwakuni base following the extension of the base runway offshore. Also, U.S. fighter/attackers from the base have frequently carried out low-altitude flight exercises over mountainous areas of the Chugoku and Shikoku regions in western Japan, which caused sharp criticism from local governments and residents.

The Yamaguchi prefectural committee of the Japanese Communist Party issued an appeal on January 17, calling for a popular movement to be developed against the plan to reinforce the base.

In relation to the terrorist attacks in the United States, the Yamaguchi Prefectural Assembly adopted a resolution last October, saying, "The best legal and reasoned means must be employed to eliminate terrorist attacks."

Quoting this, the JCP appeal said that if the Iwakuni base is further reinforced by the helicopter unit, it goes against the prefectural people's desire for peace.

Referring to more serious damage to be caused by helicopters such as noise and crashes, the appeal called on Iwakuni citizens to oppose the plan. (end)