The Japanese Defense Minister, Minoru Kihara, revealed uncertainties regarding the authenticity of a viral video that showcased what seemed to be aerial footage of the Maritime Self-Defense Force’s Izumo destroyer. Kihara addressed the media on April 2, hinting at the possibility of the video being forged with ill intentions. The brief 20-second clip depicts an aerial view of the Izumo as the camera closes in from the rear, moving across the deck of the vessel during its time at Yokosuka Naval Base.
Within the footage, a distinctive hallmark of the prominent Chinese video-sharing platform, "bilibili," is visibly present in the upper left corner, adding a layer of complexity to the situation. Given the strict regulations in place prohibiting drones from unauthorized flights over defense-related installations like the Yokosuka base, the Japanese authorities are prompted to conduct a thorough analysis of the video to ascertain its credibility. Defense Minister Kihara refrained from delving into specific security protocols and surveillance methods in place, emphasizing the importance of maintaining discretion to safeguard the operations and defenses of the base. Stressing the continuous surveillance efforts aimed at monitoring drone activities, Kihara suggested that the security apparatus remains vigilant in detecting and responding to potential threats posed by unauthorized flights over sensitive military sites.