GOTEMBA, Japan (AP) — Japan’s military is showcasing its ability to defend remote islands, as its role expands at home and abroad under Prime Minister Shinzo Abe.

The military began large-scale annual “Fire Power” exercises on Tuesday at the foot of Mount Fuji. Defense officials said the exercises, which last until Sunday, are aimed at repelling a hypothetical invasion of far-off Japanese islands.

Recommended Stories

What we know about who’s behind the fake polling operation Wedgewood Polls

DOJ urged to investigate Slotkin over threats to young professionals seeking work in Trump administration

Sixth Circuit weighs right for public to see Michigan court recordings after judge accused of verbally abusing defendant