Tokyo expected to approve military role in terrorism war

The Japanese government was tomorrow expected to formally approve a plan to provide logistical and non-combat support for the US-led war on terrorism.

Prime Minister Junichiro Koizumi’s Cabinet was to meet in the morning to approve the blueprint. A new law recently rushed through Parliament allows Japan to participate in the anti-terror campaign.

Media reports said the plan calls for the despatch of 1,500 sailors, airmen and other military personnel, who will be restricted to operations outside of the war zone.

The troops will carry supplies by sea and air and participate in search-and-rescue missions. Japan could also contribute as many as six ships and six C130 transport planes as early as next week.

The flotilla’s mission is expected to include transporting fuel and supplies to Diego Garcia, a British island in the Indian Ocean serving as a base for allied operations against Afghanistan.

Japanese transport aircraft will carry out airlift missions between US bases in Japan and staging areas overseas.

Last week, Mr Koizumi approved the despatch of three Japanese warships to the Indian Ocean to scout sea lanes and gather other information for military officials planning the operation.

Ordering its military to provide support for forces engaged in combat is a first for Japan since the end of Second World War.

During the Gulf War 10 years ago, Tokyo sent minesweepers to the Gulf after the fighting was over.

Tight constraints are placed on Japan’s military by its nation’s pacifist constitution, which rejects the use of force to resolve international disputes and reflects its bitter experience during the Second World War.