Two Air Self-Defense Forces transport planes departed Monday evening for Singapore to stand by for the possible evacuation of Japanese nationals from riot-torn Indonesia.
The two planes were to land in Manila for fueling en route to Singapore. They are expected to arrive at Paya Leban air base in Singapore this evening.
Shortly after the aircraft left the ASDF's Komaki air base in Aichi Prefecture, one plane returned due to a problem in its navigation system; a backup plane was later sent. Four additional C-130 Hercules planes, each of which can carry up to 92 people, including crew members, will be dispatched this morning, according to the ASDF.