The Japanese and Colombian navies conducted their first-ever goodwill exercise in the Caribbean Sea.
The July 17 training aimed to promote mutual understanding between the two countries and enhance the capabilities of the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force.
The training exercise covered tactical maneuvers, according to Japan’s maritime press release.
Vessels that took part in the exercise included Japan’s JS Kasima training ship, Hatakaze-class destroyer JS Shimakaze, and Colombia’s Almirante Padilla-class frigates ARC Antioquia and ARC Caldas.
Hatazake and Almirante Padilla Warships: Overview
The third-generation Hatakaze-class guided missile destroyer JS Shimakaze (DDG-172) was commissioned in 1988.
Hatazake-class vessels are the first Japanese warships with gas-turbine propulsion. The line is armed with the SM-1MR Mk13 Mod4 missile launcher, Type 68 triple torpedo tubes, ASROC Mk112 octuple launcher, Harpoon missile, and 54 caliber Mark 42 deck gun.
Almirante Padilla-class light frigates are Type FS 1500 serving as main warships of the Colombian Navy. The force currently has four of the class in service.
Built by West Germany-based shipyard Howaldtswerke-Deutsche Werft, the Almirante Padilla-class was first commissioned in the 1980s.
The Colombian frigates are powered by a CODAD (combined diesel and diesel) propulsion system and were the first in the country to be integrated with such an engine, according to Navy Recognition.