TOKYO -- Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force dispatched two P-3C patrol aircraft to the Middle East Saturday, embarking on a mission to collect information to ensure the safety of vessels traveling to Japan through sea lanes near the Arabian Peninsula.
Iran tensions
Japan sends patrol planes to Middle East amid Iran crisis
Destroyer to follow early next month to protect sea lanes
Family members send off a Maritime Self-Defense Force mission to the Middle East at Naha Base in Okinawa on Saturday. (Photo by Kohei Sakai)
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