The U.S. Indo-Pacific Command announced on Thursday (September 4th) that the United States, Japan, and South Korea will launch their annual joint defense exercise “Freedom Edge” on September 15th. This exercise aims to strengthen the three countries’ capabilities in joint operations in the air, maritime, and cyber domains, demonstrating their determination to defend peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
“Freedom Edge” is the highest-level trilateral, multi-domain joint military exercise between the United States, Japan, and South Korea. The name of the exercise is derived from two important bilateral exercises held separately with South Korea (“Freedom Shield”) and Japan (“Keen Edge”).
The purpose of the “Freedom Edge” exercise is to showcase the cooperation among the three countries in achieving and maintaining peace in the Asia-Pacific region. The leaders of the three countries approved the exercise in July 2025, marking the first time this exercise has been held since the inauguration of President Trump and President Lee Jae-myung of South Korea earlier in the year.
Starting this year, the “Freedom Edge” exercise will be held annually, with the duration extended from three days to five days. This year’s exercise will take place from September 15th to 19th in international waters southeast of Jeju Island, South Korea.
According to the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, this year’s “Freedom Edge” exercise will not only enhance the ballistic missile defense capabilities of the U.S., Japan, and South Korean forces but also incorporate the air combat forces of the Navy, Marines, and Air Force. Additionally, new key training exercises will be added, including advanced air defense drills, battlefield medical evacuation training, and maritime interception operations (such as preventing hostile vessels or smuggling).
The statement highlighted that “following the success of last year’s ‘Freedom Edge’ exercise and the achievements in ballistic missile defense and air defense exercises throughout the year, this year’s exercise will be the most advanced defense cooperation military exercise between the U.S., Japan, and South Korea to date, showcasing the highest level of joint operations and defense collaboration.”
“The continued cooperation among the three parties demonstrates the strength of joint operational capabilities and the commitment to safeguarding our core interests in the face of common threats, further enhancing deterrence in the Asia-Pacific region through the reinforcement of combat-capable forces within the first island chain.”
In response to potential threats from North Korea, the South Korean Joint Chiefs of Staff stated that “this exercise is an annual routine aimed at addressing North Korea’s nuclear and missile threats, maintaining regional peace and stability, and will strictly adhere to international laws and regulations.”
The Joint Chiefs of Staff emphasized that the upcoming exercise is part of routine drills.
(This article referenced reports from Yonhap News Agency and Reuters)