The Japan Coast Guard is struggling to secure enough personnel as it sees an expansion of its duties, including territorial sea patrols around the Japanese-administered Senkaku Islands in the East China Sea.
Applications for officer posts have fallen, while turnover has increased, especially among younger members. The JCG's overall headcount dwindled in fiscal 2024, which ended last March, marking the first annual drop since fiscal 2012.
Amid growing concern, the JCG has ramped up midcareer hiring and is also putting greater effort into work-style reforms.
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