The Civilian-Military Collaboration for Mega-Disasters Rescue by Japanese Self Defense Force (JSDF) and US Military - From Operation Tomodachi (2011) to Noto Peninsula Earthquake (2024)

Summary: The civilian-military collaboration for mega disaster rescue is performed as an operation under civilian control. In Japan, only the JSDF and the US military can offer agile C4ISR systems and 3-D operation by a joint task force. This paper shows the activities of Operation Tomodachi and the Noto Peninsula Earthquake. Operation Tomodachi at the Mega East Japan Earthquake In 2011, the political situation in Asia was not dangerous due to the six countries’ meeting format. Nuclear power plants in Fukushima experienced a meltdown due to a tsunami. Rescue teams were required to manage the CBRNE disaster, and CBIRF was dispatched from the US Marines. JSDF FDMA(Fire and Disaster Management Agency) prevented the China syndrome by brave reactor cooling operations from land and air. The US military conducted a 3-D rescue operation using an aircraft carrier and an amphibious assault ship. JSDF sent over 100,000 soldiers for rescue. Airport and main highways were repaired quickly. Noto Peninsula Earthquake: In January 2024, the political situation was critical due to the Ukraine war, the Hamas attack, and the Taiwan crisis. Both the JSDF and the US military were on high alert. Fortunately, the earthquake area was limited, and the JSDF base near the Noto Peninsula was not damaged. JSDF, National Police Agency, FDMA, and Japan Coast Guard performed 3-D rescue operations. Innovative devices such as LCAC from an amphibious ship or multi-role drones were activated. JSDF provided eight months of operation for lifelines in the NOTO area. No looting or riots were reported. Today, the risk of the Nankai Trough Mega Earthquake is increasing, and JSDF and the US military are required for disaster rescue and defense. Available forces depend on international circumstances. The Security Treaty Between the US and Japan has become the backbone for defense, economic activity, and disaster resilience.