U.S. Marines with 3rd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company, 9th Engineer Support Battalion, 3rd Marine Logistics Group, trained alongside Japan Ground Self-Defense Force members during a bilateral live-fire ground response training on Okinawa, Japan, Oct. 23, 2026.
During the training, Marines and JGSDF personnel practiced range safety procedures, equipment preparation and ground response techniques while coordinating their actions in a controlled environment. This training provided an opportunity for both forces to observe each other’s procedures and exchange knowledge related to proper EOD operations.
The bilateral live-fire ground response training included technical demonstrations involving explosive materials and equipment such as thermite grenades, M112 demolition blocks, detonating cord, water charges and drones. U.S. and Japanese EOD personnel observed and conducted these demonstrations to share knowledge before moving to safe distances for controlled detonations.
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Source: U.S. Pacific Command
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