Japan's GSDF begins annual military drill near Mt. Fuji

Japan's Ground Self-Defense Forces (GSDF) on Tuesday started an annual military exercise at the foot of Mount Fuji in Gotenba city, some 100 kilometers west of Tokyo.

More than 2,000 military personnel took part in the drill, dubbed the "Fire Power 2010 In Fuji." The 2010 maneuver also involved about 40 tanks and armored vehicles, 30 aircraft, including F-2 jet fighters and AH-64D "Apachi" helicopters, and 50 canons and missiles.

The joint exercise was initiated in 1961 and had developed into an annual attraction in summer. The event, which opens to the public, attracted about 30,000 spectators in 2009 in its final day.

The 2010 exercise will end on Aug. 29.

Source: Xinhua