The U.S. has asked the Japanese "Self-Defense Forces" to participate in all military exercises it will stage with south Korea. The fact was revealed by Japanese government officials on Feb. 22.

The U.S. is reportedly sounding out the likelihood of SDF's participation in the soon-to-be-held Key Resolve joint military maneuvers with south Korea and if an arrangement is made, Japan will dispatch several SDF officers as observers as it did in last July.

The U.S. has also asked south Korea to take part in all U.S.-Japan naval exercises as observers.

Reporting the fact, the Japanese Jiji Press said the U.S. is seeking to strengthen tie-up with Japan and south Korea.