March 2011 - Japan Special Weapons News

Securing Japan's Nuclear Reactors Grows Harder RFE/RL 31 Mar 2011 -- Several bits of bad news this week showed job at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant could be more difficult than originally thought.
Radiation Fears Leave 1,000 Bodies Unclaimed Near Japan Plant VOA 31 Mar 2011 -- Authorities in Japan say they are unable to collect up to 1,000 dead bodies lying within 20-kilometers of the Fukushima nuclear plant.
Radioactivity 10,000 Times Standard At Japanese Plant RFE/RL 31 Mar 2011 -- Officials: Radioactive contamination in groundwater underneath reactor No. 2 has been measured at 10,000 times the gov standard.
No plans to expand Fukushima exclusion zone - authorities RIA Novosti 31 Mar 2011 -- Japanese officials have no plans to expand the evacuation zone around the troubled Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power plant.
No options but to close Fukushima nuke plant - Japanese premier RIA Novosti 31 Mar 2011 -- Japan's troubled Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant will most likely be closed down.
Radioactive iodine level near Fukushima 4,300 times above norm RIA Novosti 31 Mar 2011 -- The concentration of radioactive iodine in seawater near Japan's crippled Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant is currently 4,385 times above the norm.
U.S. Marine Team to Aid Japan Recovery Effort AFPS 30 Mar 2011 -- A team of Marines specifically trained to operate in chemical, biological, nuclear and radiological environments is deploying to Japan.
Tortuga Embarks Expeditionary Units to Perform Rescue, Salvage Operations NNS 31 Mar 2011 -- A mobile salvage unit and naval construction regiment arrived aboard the USS Tortuga on March 29, to conduct port clearing operations along the northeastern coastline of Japan.
NAF Misawa Air Terminal Meets Challenge of Supporting Operation Tomodachi NNS 31 Mar 2011 -- Naval Air Facility Misawa's air terminal has provided unprecedented support according to their department head, March 31.
Marines, Japanese counterparts work to restore Sendai Airport USMC News 31 Mar 2011 -- Marines, sailors and soldiers assigned to 3rd Marine Expeditionary Brigade's Logistics Support Element, are working around the clock to repair the destroyed airport.
Marines, JSDF deliver needed supplies USMC News 31 Mar 2011 -- Marines with Marine Medium Helicopter Squadron 265 continue to work with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force to deliver essential supplies to distribution points in nothern Japan during Operation Tomodachi.
USS Shiloh En Route to Sendai with Aid from Local Navy Families NNS 31 Mar 2011 -- USS Shiloh Sailors and workers from Naval Facilities Engineering Command Far East Crane and Rigging Department loaded "tri-wall" boxes on board Shiloh March 17.
Chinese Helicopter Approaches Japanese Escort Ship KCNA 31 Mar 2011 -- A Chinese helicopter approached close to Isoyuki, an escort ship of the Japan Maritime "Self-Defence Force," on guard duty.
China hits out at Japan's claim to Diaoyutai Islands RIA Novosti 31 Mar 2011 -- China strongly objects Japan's attempts to claim sovereignty over the disputed Diaoyutai Islands.
IAEA: High Radiation Levels Detected Outside Japan Evacuation Zones VOA 30 Mar 2011 -- Top UN nuclear official says the situation at Japan's troubled nuclear power plant continues to be very serious.
Situation at Japan's Fukushima Nuclear Plant Still Serious VOA 30 Mar 2011 -- Executives at Tokyo Electric Power delivered a stark assessment of the situation at the Fukushima nuclear power plant.
Japanese Officials Downplay Concerns About Radioactive Seawater RFE/RL 30 Mar 2011 -- Seawater near the crippled Fukushima nuclear complex's No.1 reactor contained radioactive iodine above the legal limit.
Japanese cabinet secretary suggests scrapping Fukushima plant RIA Novosti 30 Mar 2011 -- Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Edano: Time to start thinking about closing down all six reactors.
Japan mulls covering Fukushima reactors to prevent fallout RIA Novosti 30 Mar 2011 -- The Japanese government is considering new measures to stem radiation fallout from the troubled reactors at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant.
Japan authorities warn people against returning to radiation zone RIA Novosti 30 Mar 2011 -- Japanese government spokesman Yukio Edano warned people earlier evacuated from within 20 kilometers of the crippled Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant against returning home.
Japan forces tougher safety on nuclear facilities RIA Novosti 30 Mar 2011 -- Japan's nuclear power stations face closure unless they meet tougher safety requirements drawn up by the government, Trade and Industry Minister Banri Kaieda said.
Leakage of Radioactive Substance Goes on in Japan KCNA 30 Mar 2011 -- The leakage of radioactive substance from the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant in Japan is going on.
Yokota Airmen central to supporting Operation Tomodachi AFNS 30 Mar 2011 -- Airmen working in the Emergency Operations Center here have been central to processing and coordinating disaster relief efforts in support of Operation Tomodachi.
Soldiers help open runways at Sendai International Army News 30 Mar 2011 -- U.S. servicemembers have been working jointly and around the clock with Japanese Self-Defense Forces since mid-March.
VP-4 Wrapping Up Business in Misawa NNS 30 Mar 2011 -- Patrol Squadron (VP) 4 departed Naval Air Facility Misawa, Japan, March 30, after completing their mission in support of Operation Tomodachi.
Black Hawks Fly To Help Japan Army News 30 Mar 2011 -- The mission success of the Black Hawks in Japan, flown by the Army's 78th Aviation Battalion, can be attributed to the helicopter's advanced technology, its well-trained pilots and crew, and the dedication of the U.S. to provide support to its allies.
Final Operation Pacific Passage mission arrives at Travis AFNS 30 Mar 2011 -- The last flight transporting military family members who voluntarily departed Japan as part of Operation Pacific Passage arrived March 28 here.
Japanese spacecraft survive powerful earthquake and tsunami RIA Novosti 30 Mar 2011 -- Japan's HTV-3 space freighter and two satellites were not damaged in the 9.0-magnitude earthquake and tsunami.
US Nuclear Officials: Japan Nuclear Plant Slowly Recovering VOA 29 Mar 2011 -- US nuclear officials said that Japan's troubled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant is slowly being brought under control.
Japan Says No Choice But To Flood Nuclear Reactors RFE/RL 29 Mar 2011 -- Japan's government has said that it has no choice but to keep pouring water into reactors at the crippled Fukushima power plant.
Japan on 'Maximum Alert' as Workers Try to Stem Leaks of Toxic Water VOA 29 Mar 2011 -- Japanese PM Kan: Country is on "maximum alert," adding that the situation at Fukushima nuclear power plant is "unpredictable."
Prime Minister: Japan On 'Maximum Alert' Over Nuclear Crisis RFE/RL 29 Mar 2011 -- Japanese PM Kan says his government remains in a "state of maximum alert" over the crisis at Fukushima nuclear plant.
Fukushima radioactive water not confirmed - agency RIA Novosti 29 Mar 2011 -- Japanese authorities have yet to confirm the overflow of radioactive water from the emergency units of Japanese nuclear power plant Fukushima 1.
Workers At Japanese Nuclear Plant Face Grim Conditions VOA 29 Mar 2011 -- When workers at the damaged nuclear plant in Japan are not toiling to avert a catastrophic nuclear meltdown, they are enduring the most basic living conditions.
Radioactive Material from Japanese Nuclear Plant Spreads Across Globe VOA 29 Mar 2011 -- Authorities across Asia and the US are reporting small amounts of radiation from Japan's crippled Fukushima nuclear plant.
Commander discusses Yokota's role in Operation Tomodachi AFNS 29 Mar 2011 -- Yokota Air Base's role as the sole airlift hub of the western Pacific increased in significance following the March 11 earthquake and tsunami in northern Japan.
Maintainers build mount for Fukushima sensors AFNS 29 Mar 2011 -- Since March 11, Airmen all over Yokota Air Base have performed key tasks in support of Japanese relief efforts, but for two Airmen the work took a greater personal significance March 28.
Partners from Down Under AFNS 29 Mar 2011 -- Airmen station in Japan have received a rare opportunity recently to work hand-in-hand with the Royal Australian Air Force.
Yokota AB Airmen tackle Herculean airlift missions into Sendai AFNS 29 Mar 2011 -- Over the past two weeks, Sendai Airport has served as a critical relay point for relief efforts throughout northeastern Japan.
Navy Divers Conduct Search and Salvage Relief Efforts in Hachinohe, Japan NNS 29 Mar 2011 -- A bilateral effort came together during a three-day period, March 25-28.
Repair, Maintenance Facility Assists with Japan Relief NNS 29 Mar 2011 -- US Naval Ship Repair Facility and Japan Regional Maintenance Center Yokosuka has been heavily involved with Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka in coordinated efforts for Voluntary Military Assisted Departure and Operation Tomodachi.
Families Depart on Last MAVDD Flight from Atsugi, Japan NNS 29 Mar 2011 -- The last contracted flight for DoD dependents participating in the Military Assisted Voluntary Departure of Dependents left Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan, March 28.
DPRK's Relief Fund Conveyed to Japan Red Cross Society KCNA 29 Mar 2011 -- Relief fund was sent by the C.C., the DPRK Red Cross Society to the victims and bereaved families as regards the recent megaquake and tsunami that hit Japan.
Another strong quake jolts northern Japan RIA Novosti 29 Mar 2011 -- A magnitude 6.4 earthquake hit northern Japan on Tuesday.
Plutonium Found In Soil At Japan Nuclear Plant RFE/RL 28 Mar 2011 -- The operator of the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant in Japan says plutonium has been detected in soil at five places at the plant.
Radioactive Plutonium Found in Soil Around Damaged Japanese Nuclear Plant VOA 28 Mar 2011 -- Plutonium has been detected in the soil in five locations around Japan's earthquake-disabled nuclear reactor.
Partial Meltdown Suspected at Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant VOA 28 Mar 2011 -- Japanese officials suspect a partial meltdown is to blame for high contamination in water inside the Fukushima power plant.
Japan Government Says Radiation Reading Error 'Unacceptable' RFE/RL 28 Mar 2011 -- Japan's government has denounced as "absolutely unacceptable" a radiation-level reading error.
Melted fuel rods cause radiation spike at Japan nuclear plant - govt. RIA Novosti 28 Mar 2011 -- Extremely high level of radiation in water at Japan's crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant is due to a partial meltdown of the reactor core.
Serious Radiation in Japan Spreads to Different Parts of World KCNA 28 Mar 2011 -- The leakage of radioactive substance due to the accident at the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant in Japan is getting serious.
Hiroshima Expresses Anger, Fear Over Nuclear Plant Crisis VOA 28 Mar 2011 -- Fears over the potential fallout from the crisis at the Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant have triggered painful memories in Japan.
Yokota AB Airmen play vital role in cooling Fukushima power plant AFNS 28 Mar 2011 -- A team of Airmen from here labored nonstop March 25 through 27 to design and create essential components for water pumps to be used at a nuclear power plant in northern Japan.
Total-force team supports Operation Tomodachi AFNS 28 Mar 2011 -- Total integrated force of active, Guard and Reserve Airmen are supporting humanitarian relief efforts in Japan following earthquake and subsequent tsunami.
Army North teams continue to assist military families returning from Japan Army News 28 Mar 2011 -- Military and civilian members of U. S. Army North took the lead in setting up three reception centers to assist nearly 4,000 military family members who voluntarily returned to the US.
Operation Pacific Passage Winds Down at Travis Air Force Base NNS 28 Mar 2011 -- Operation Pacific Passage, the voluntary military-assisted departure from Japan, neared its end with two flight arrivals of family members at Travis Air Force Base.
Navy Stops Non-Essential Civilian Deployments to Japan NNS 28 Mar 2011 -- The Assistant Secretary of the Navy (Manpower and Reserve Affairs) directed the immediate stop of movement for all Department of the Navy non-emergency essential civilian personnel to the island of Honshu, Japan March 26.
Magnitude 6.5 quake hits Japan RIA Novosti 28 Mar 2011 -- A magnitude 6.5 earthquake hit northern Japan on Monday, the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) reported.
Japan's HTV-2 cargo spaceship undocks from ISS RIA Novosti 28 Mar 2011 -- Japan's HTV-2 Konotori robotic cargo space ship undocked from the International Space Station.
Workers Evacuated After Radiation Rises In Japanese Reactor RFE/RL 27 Mar 2011 -- Reports from Japan say workers have been evacuated from a reactor at the earthquake- and tsunami-hit Fukushima nuclear power station after very high levels of radiation were detected.
Radioactive levels at Fukushima lower than reported, but remain high - Kyodo RIA Novosti 27 Mar 2011 -- Levels of radioactive iodine in water at Fukushima's reactor No. 2 are 100,000 times above the normal levels, Kyodo Japanese news agency said.
Nuclear Radiation Readings Corrected at Crippled Japanese Plant VOA 27 Mar 2011 -- Work continued Sunday to bring the Fukushima nuclear power plant in Japan under control. The plant owner had earlier said radiation contamination in water inside part of one of the buildings had increased sharply, but later said that was a mistake.
Confusion Over Radiation Levels at Japan Nuclear Plant VOA 27 Mar 2011 -- Confusion reigned Sunday at a crippled nuclear power plant in northeastern Japan, as emergency workers were pulled from a reactor building after dangerously high levels of radiation were detected in water that had accumulated in a turbine housing unit.
Isolated Island receives food, water, power with 31st MEU, PHIBRON 11 visit USMC News 27 Mar 2011 -- Two U.S. Navy landing craft carrying Marines and Sailors with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and Amphibious Squadron 11, as well as disaster relief supplies and Japanese electrical utility trucks, arrived in Oshima Island, March 27.
HSL 51 Maintains Helicopters While Supporting Operation Tomodachi NNS 27 Mar 2011 -- Sailors attached to Helicopter Antisubmarine Squadron Light 51 performed routine maintenance on the squadron's SH-60B/F helicopters March 27 at Naval Air Facility Misawa, Japan.
Power functions restored at control room of Fukushima's 2nd reactor RIA Novosti 26 Mar 2011 -- Japanese engineers restored on Saturday the electricity supply at the control room of the second reactor of Japan's quake-hit Fukushima 1 nuclear power plant, Kyodo news agency reported.
High Radiation Levels Continue to Hamper Work at Crippled Japanese Nuclear Plant VOA 26 Mar 2011 -- High radiation levels at a crippled Japanese nuclear power plant continue to slow efforts to bring the situation under control. The Fukushima-1 complex has suffered repeated trouble since a massive earthquake and tsunami struck on March 11.
31st MEU continues relief efforts in Japan USMC News 26 Mar 2011 -- The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit continues relief efforts off the northeast coast of Honshu in support of Operation Tomodachi, March 25.
JSF-J deliver showers to local citizens USMC News 26 Mar 2011 -- Service members with the Joint Support Forces Japan and the Japan North East Army conducted a bilateral mission to deliver field showers here to internally displaced personnel at the Ooshima Community Center March 26.
3rd MarDiv exemplifies Corps' readiness during Operation Tomodachi USMC News 26 Mar 2011 -- The Marine Corps is known for being uniquely trained, equipped and organized to maintain a constant state of global readiness and the ability to plan and mobilize for any ship-to-shore operation within a matter of hours.
Information cell coordinates relief efforts USMC News 26 Mar 2011 -- Japanese and U.S. military personnel have assembled a team to help coordinate relief and recovery efforts and better facilitate distribution of supplies to those affected by the March 11 earthquake and tsunami.
RadCon Team Ensures Safety at Misawa NNS 26 Mar 2011 -- The U.S Navy's Bioenvironmental Engineering Office began operations at Misawa Air Base Japan March 20, performing checks on all aircraft arriving to participate in humanitarian
USNS Safeguard, Additional Salvage Support Reaches Hachinohe NNS 25 Mar 2011 -- USNS Safeguard (T-ARS-50), along with personnel and assets from Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) Mobile Unit 5, and Underwater Construction Team (UCT) 2, arrived at Hachinohe, Japan, March 25, to assist the Japanese Coast Guard as recovery efforts continue in the city.
U.S. Navy to Provide 500,000 Gallons of Fresh Water to Fukushima Power Plant NNS 25 Mar 2011 -- Commander, Fleet Activities Yokosuka (CFAY) began transferring fresh water to two fuel barges, which will be used to support cooling efforts at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, March 25.
Essex Embarks Japanese Officer for HADR Coordination NNS 25 Mar 2011 -- With more than 100 countries helping Japan recover from the devastating 9.0 earthquake and ensuing tsunami that battered the country March 11, language and communication barriers can hinder rescue and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) efforts.
Naval Aviation Reserve VR Forces Provide Critical Aid to Japan NNS 25 Mar 2011 -- Hundreds of Navy Reserve Sailors assigned to Fleet Logistics Support (VR) squadrons across the United States were diverted from routine operations March 12 to support Operation Tomodachi, the joint humanitarian relief effort in Japan.
Japan's PM Pessimistic About Crippled Nuclear Complex VOA 25 Mar 2011 -- Two weeks after a magnitude 9.0 earthquake triggered a huge tsunami that severely damaged a Japanese nuclear power plant, the situation is still not under control.
Japan Tsunami Damage Cost Could Top $300 Billion VOA 25 Mar 2011 -- Japan's government says the total cost of the damage caused by the tsunami could reach 25 trillion yen – or U.S. $309 billion.
U.S. Forces Continue to Aid Earthquake, Tsunami Victims AFPS 25 Mar 2011 -- American service members in Japan continue to help the Japanese people recover from the catastrophic March 11 earthquake and tsunami.
Key Resolve assets for support of Operation Tomodachi USMC News 25 Mar 2011 -- Exercise Key Resolve 2011 ended March 10, and 1st Marine Aircraft Wing, III Marine Expeditionary Force, assets used for the exercise are being sent to mainland Japan to support humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts there.
Operation Tomodachi continues III MEF, MCBJ supporting relief efforts USMC News 25 Mar 2011 -- III Marine Expeditionary Force and Marine Corps Bases Japan are continuing to actively provide support to Operation Tomodachi on mainland Japan.
HASTs mission determines need USMC News 25 Mar 2011 -- Humanitarian Assistance Survey Teams, III Marine Expeditionary Force (Forward), are in Japan to assist in planning humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations following the March 11 9.0 magnitude earthquake and subsequent tsunami.
I MEF (FWD) begins trek home after historic deployment USMC News 25 Mar 2011 -- Marines and sailors with I Marine Expeditionary Force (FWD) are returning home from a year-long deployment to Helmand province, Afghanistan.
Marines continue supporting relief efforts for Operation Tomodachi USMC News 25 Mar 2011 -- III Marine Expeditionary Force and Marine Corps Bases Japan are continuing to actively provide support to Operation Tomodachi on mainland Japan.
SOFA personnel donate to relief efforts USMC News 25 Mar 2011 -- A 9.0 magnitude earthquake, with an epicenter located 231 miles northeast of Tokyo, and subsequent tsunami has resulted in at least 9,199 deaths, 13,786 missing people and 2,722 injured people on mainland Japan as of March 22, according to the National Police Agency of Japan.
Operation Tomodachi: MCAS Iwakuni goes rapid fire on humanitarian aid USMC News 24 Mar 2011 -- Since the earthquake off the coast of Sendai, Japan, and ensuing tsunami, which swept through and nuked the coastal regions of northern Japan March 11, a deluge of relief efforts have filtered through the air station to support Operation Tomodachi, the U.S. armed forces humanitarian relief efforts toward Japan.
Marines, sailors support Operation Tomodachi by air, land, sea USMC News 24 Mar 2011 -- The crew of High Speed Vessel Westpac Express arrived here, March 22, from Pohang, South Korea with more than 230 tons of palletized bottled water, which is scheduled to be transported via KC-130J aircraft from here to Sendai, Japan, in support of Operation Tomodachi.
Emotional, physical, mental relief en route to northern Japan USMC News 24 Mar 2011 -- C-12s carrying cargo and personnel made the more a journey to Atsugi, Japan, to deliver relief supplies and spiritual aid in support of Operation Tomodachi, March 16.
The first 24: III MEF responds to Japan disaster USMC News 24 Mar 2011 -- Since the massive 9.0 magnitude earthquake that rocked the island of Japan and triggered a devastating tsunami, Marines, sailors and civilians from III Marine Expeditionary Force and Marine Corps Bases Japan have been working around the clock in support of Operation Tomodachi.
USS Essex, 31st MEU Continue Relief Efforts in Japan NNS 23 Mar 2011 -- The forward-deployed amphibious assault ship USS Essex (LHD 2) and embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) continued humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) efforts off the northeast coast of Honshu, Japan, in support of Operation Tomodachi, March 23.
USS McCampbell Replenishes to Continue Relief to Japan NNS 23 Mar 2011 -- USS McCampbell (DDG 85) took on supplies to continue Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations off the eastern coast of Japan March 23.
Work Resumes At Stricken Japanese Nuclear Plant RFE/RL 24 Mar 2011 -- Engineers have resumed work to restore the cooling system of reactor no. 3 at Japan's stricken Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant that was badly damaged by an earthquake and tsunami on March 11.
Victim Toll Rises As New Smoke Plume Sends Nuclear Workers Scrambling RFE/RL 23 Mar 2011 -- Japanese officials have issued new warnings over radioactive contamination as a fresh discharge of smoke at the stricken Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant raised additional concerns.
Confirmed dead in Japanese quake, tsunami passes 9,000 RIA Novosti 22 Mar 2011 -- Police in Japan say the death toll in the devastating earthquake and subsequent tsunami has exceeded 9,000 people, the Kyodo news agency reported on Tuesday.
Radiation near Japanese nuclear plant 1,600 times normal level RIA Novosti 22 Mar 2011 -- Radiation levels in some areas within a 20-kilometer (12-mile) zone around Japan's troubled Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant is 1,600 higher than the norm, the Kyodo news agency said, quoting International Atomic Energy Agency officials.
Radioactive Seawater Latest Woe for Battered Japan VOA 22 Mar 2011 -- Strong aftershocks continued to rock northeastern Japan, while firefighters and repair personnel risked excessive radiation exposure at a heavily damaged nuclear-power plant.
31ST MEU moves to the east coast of Japan, delivers aid via helo USMC News 21 Mar 2011 -- The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and Amphibious Squadron 11, with a combined total of more than 4,000 Marines and Sailors, transited to the east coast of mainland Japan March 20.
First C-17 touches down in Sendai AFNS 21 Mar 2011 -- A C-17 Globemaster III from Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, landed in Sendai March 20 to part in the relief support mission here.
Efforts Continue to Cool Crippled Japanese Nuclear Reactors VOA 21 Mar 2011 -- Japanese firefighters halted water spraying on Monday at the country's severely crippled nuclear power plant after smoke was spotted rising from one of the reactor buildings.
Radiation Fears Mount Despite Partial Restoration Of Power At Japanese Nuclear Plant RFE/RL 20 Mar 2011 -- Workers at Japan's stricken Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant have managed to reconnected power to the facility's No. 1 and No. 2 reactors, a step they hope will soon allow them to restart the plant's cooling system and avert a wider nuclear disaster.
Mobility Airmen supporting Japan relief effort on multiple fronts AFNS 19 Mar 2011 -- Every day since March 11 when the earthquake and a tsunami struck Japan, mobility Airmen have been on a busy pace.
Farm Products Contaminated Near Japanese Nuclear Plant VOA 19 Mar 2011 -- Japan has confirmed radiation contamination of some agricultural products near a nuclear power plant crippled by last week's earthquake and tsunami that is still spewing radiation.
US Troops Ready to Enter Japan's Nuclear Danger Zone VOA 18 Mar 2011 -- The commander of U.S. military forces in the Pacific says he is sending his troops into the danger zone near the Japan's crippled nuclear power plants as needed.
Frantic Cooling Efforts Continue at Japan's Crippled Nuclear Plant VOA 18 Mar 2011 -- Japan is continuing its attempts to cool damaged reactors and exposed fuel rods.
Japan Marks One Week Since Twin Disasters As Nuclear Threat Level Raised RFE/RL 18 Mar 2011 -- Japan's Nuclear Safety Agency has raised the severity level of the Fukushima nuclear accident from a 4 to a 5.
Japan raises nuclear alert level at crippled plant RIA Novosti 18 Mar 2011 -- Japan raised the alert level at quake-damaged Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant to five from four on a seven-point scale.
Russia, U.S. agree to share data on Japan RIA Novosti 18 Mar 2011 -- Russia and the United States agreed on Friday to share information on developments at Japan's troubled Fukushima nuclear plant.
Taiwan, U.S. exchange information about radiation leakage in Japan CNA 18 Mar 2011 -- The US has offered Taiwan first-hand information about the problems at a Japanese nuclear power plant crippled by a horrific earthquake and tsunami.
Japan pledges more information on nuclear crisis RIA Novosti 18 Mar 2011 -- Japan's prime minister, Naoto Kan, vowed to give more detailed information to the international community on the unfolding crisis at a quake-crippled nuclear plant in the country's northeast.
31st MEU arrives off the coast of Japan USMC News 18 Mar 2011 -- The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit and Amphibious Squadron 11, with a combined total of more than 4,000 Marines and Sailors, arrived off of the west coast of mainland Japan March 18.
MCAS Futenma proves critical during III MEF HA/DR effort USMC News 18 Mar 2011 -- Marine Corps Air Station Futenma has proven to be a critical asset in III Marine Expeditionary Force's support to the humanitarian assistance/disaster relief efforts on mainland Japan.
51st LRS Airmen support Operation Tomodachi during ORE AFNS 18 Mar 2011 -- Airmen from the 51st Logistics Readiness Squadron processed 18,000 pounds of cargo here March 14 in support of Operation Tomodachi.
Japan-based Military Families Remain Top Concern AFPS 18 Mar 2011 -- Defense Department officials are taking “proactive, deliberate” steps to stay ahead of the changing conditions in Japan.
Remarks by the President on the Situation in Japan The White House 17 Mar 2011
Pacific commander briefs media on humanitarian relief operations in Japan DoD 17 Mar 2011
Helping Japan Now Pacific Command's Top Priority AFPS 17 Mar 2011 -- U.S. forces in Japan are engaged in one of the biggest natural and manmade disasters of a lifetime, Navy Adm. Robert F. Willard said.
Obama Pledges Support for Stricken Japanese AFPS 17 Mar 2011 -- The US is using all available resources to assist a stricken Japan reeling from the effects of a massive earthquake.
Emergency Power Reaches Crippled Japan Nuclear Plant VOA 17 Mar 2011 -- The UN nuclear agency says the situation at Japan's earthquake and tsunami-crippled nuclear reactor is "very serious".
Fuel meltdown, radiation leak prospect still haunting Japan RIA Novosti 17 Mar 2011 -- The water level in a spent nuclear fuel pool at Fukushima No. 1 plant has dropped, creating the possibility of a meltdown.
Fukushima's spent nuclear fuel storage facilities under threat RIA Novosti 17 Mar 2011 -- The water level in a spent nuclear fuel pond at Japan's blasts-ridden Fukushima No. 1 plant has dropped.
Japan Struggles To Avert Widespread Catastrophe At Nuclear Plant RFE/RL 17 Mar 2011 -- Japanese authorities continuing desperate efforts to avert a widespread disaster at the Fukushima nuclear power plant.
China Urges Full Disclosure on Japan Radiation Leaks VOA 17 Mar 2011 -- The Chinese government urged its crisis-hit neighbor Japan to issue prompt and accurate information about radiation leaks.
Situation at Japan's troubled nuclear plant 'slightly improved' RIA Novosti 17 Mar 2011 -- The situation at Japan's troubled Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant has slightly improved.
Radiation remains high at Japanese plant despite cooling effort RIA Novosti 17 Mar 2011 -- Radiation levels remain high at the quake-stricken Fukushima Daiichi plant in east Japan, the plant's operator said, as efforts continue to cool the reactors from the air.
Japan Turns to Desperate Measures to Cool Nuclear Reactors VOA 17 Mar 2011 -- The Japanese military is using high-pressure fire hoses to spray water on earthquake-damaged nuclear reactors in a desperate attempt to cool down dangerously-hot fuel rods.
Helicopters drop water on Japan's troubled nuclear reactor RIA Novosti 17 Mar 2011 -- Japan's Self-Defense Forces helicopters dropped water on the troubled No. 3 reactor of Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant to prevent the reactor from releasing radioactive steam.
High-level radiation prevents use of water hoses on Japan nuclear reactor - TV RIA Novosti 17 Mar 2011 -- High levels of radiation are preventing police from using water cannons to douse the overheated Fukushima-1 nuclear reactor in Japan.
Danger of Radioactive Materials Leakage Increases in Japan KCNA 17 Mar 2011 -- Nuclear reactor explosions occurred one after another as there increases damage by the catastrophic quake that jolted Japan.
Japan, Foreign Embassies Break Step on Evacuation Advice VOA 17 Mar 2011 -- Some foreign governments have begun advising their citizens to leave Japan, as the outlook for a crippled nuclear power plant becomes increasingly unclear.
US firm involved in Fukushima nuclear crisis: Japanese official IRNA 17 Mar 2011 -- A Japanese media official said that the recent crisis of Fukushima nuclear power plant were caused by substandard reactors made by American General Elector Company.
Gates Authorizes Humanitarian Funds for Japan AFPS 17 Mar 2011 -- Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates has authorized up to $35 million in initial Defense Department funds for humanitarian aid to Japan.
31st MEU inserts to begin helping with Japan relief operations USMC News 17 Mar 2011 -- Marines with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit left the flight deck of the USS Essex to establish a forward command center for the unit, March 17.
Eagle Vision imagery supporting Japan recovery efforts AFNS 17 Mar 2011 -- Eagle Vision imagery collection team rushed into action within hours of the devastating earthquake and subsequent tsunami that struck Northeast Japan March 11.
DOS officials authorize voluntary departure of dependents from Japan AFNS 17 Mar 2011 -- Department of State officials authorized the voluntary departure, including relocation to safe areas within Japan, for family members and dependents of U.S. government officials who wish to leave Northeast Japan.
From blankets to satellite phones, UN rushes help to tsunami-stricken Japan UN News Centre 17 Mar 2011 -- United Nations agencies are rushing assistance to Japan to help cope with the multi-front disaster.
Japanese Shelters Report Shortage of Food, Water VOA 17 Mar 2011 -- Japanese officials report increasing problems in getting food and water to hundreds of thousands of people who remain in makeshift shelters almost a week the nation's worst recorded earthquake triggered a devastating tsunami.
American Official Warns Significant Radiation Risk in Japan VOA 16 Mar 2011 -- US Nuclear Regulatory Chairman Gregory Jaczko: His commission is recommending a larger evacuation radius.
IAEA Chief Heads to Japan to Assess Nuclear Crisis VOA 16 Mar 2011 -- The head of the International Atomic Energy Agency says he will travel to Japan to gather firsthand information about the crisis.
Japan Struggles To Avert Further Radioactive Leaks RFE/RL 16 Mar 2011 -- Japan put top priority on efforts to cool down nuclear power plant, attempting at one stage to drop seawater on the facility without success.
Crisis Continues at Crippled Japanese Nuclear Power Plants VOA 16 Mar 2011 -- Japan's military failed on a first attempt to drop water from helicopters on one of the damaged reactors.
Blast-hit Japanese reactors cooled, radiation levels down RIA Novosti 16 Mar 2011 -- Units One, Two and Three of Japan's troubled Fukushima 1 nuclear power plant are being cooled.
S. Korea to send boric acid to Japan to cope with nuclear disaster RIA Novosti 16 Mar 2011 -- South Korea will send boric acid to Japan to help cope with the possible nuclear crisis triggered by last week's massive earthquake and tsunami.
Japan's Nuclear Crisis Deepens With Fire, Radiation Leaks VOA 16 Mar 2011 -- The crisis at Japan's earthquake-stricken nuclear plant is deepening, with radiation emissions rising to levels that forced authorities to temporarily evacuate the last technicians from the facility.
Japan on Edge About Nuclear Accident VOA 16 Mar 2011 -- The Japanese government continues to assure citizens that a worsening nuclear crisis poses no radiation threat to those outside an already established evacuation zone.
Ships, Aircraft Support Japan Relief Effort AFPS 16 Mar 2011 -- Fourteen US Navy ships and their aircraft and 17,000 sailors and Marines are now involved in the humanitarian assistance and disaster relief efforts in Japan.
US Military Sends Ships, Aircraft to Japan Relief Effort VOA 16 Mar 2011 -- The U.S. Navy has 14 ships off the coast of Japan, providing humanitarian assistance to victims of last week's earthquake and tsunami.
Special-ops Airmen open strategic runways for relief operations AFNS 16 Mar 2011 -- Airmen and aircraft from the 353rd Special Operations Group assisted Japanese officials in opening two key runways to support relief operations in northern Japan.
VP-4 Perform SAR Missions in Support of Operation Tomodachi NNS 16 Mar 2011 -- Flight crews from Patrol Squadron4 are flying humanitarian and support missions as part of Operation Tomodachi.
Tortuga Sailors, Japanese Army Forces Support Operation Tomodachi NNS 16 Mar 2011 -- USS Tortuga Sailors and Japan Ground Self-Defense Force Northern Army soldiers loaded vehicles and trailers in support of earthquake and tsunami relief efforts.
Patrol Squadron 4 Relocates Assets to Misawa NNS 16 Mar 2011 -- More than 70 crewmembers of Patrol Squadron 4, currently on deployment in Okinawa, Japan, arrived at Naval Air Facility Misawa, March 16, to better assist with Japanese relief efforts.
USS Essex Loads Humanitarian Assistance Supplies Bound for Relief Effort in Japan NNS 16 Mar 2011 -- USS Essex on-loaded humanitarian assistance and disaster relief supplies March 15 during a replenishment at sea.
Air Force officials use Global Hawk to support Japan relief efforts AFNS 16 Mar 2011 -- Pacific Air Forces officials are using an RQ-4 Global Hawk from Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, to assist Japan responders in disaster relief and recovery efforts.
Ambassador Issues Message to Americans in Japan AFPS 16 Mar 2011 -- U.S. Ambassador to Japan John V. Roos issued a message to Americans living there to bring them up to date on the aftermath of the earthquake and tsunami.
Yokota, Misawa commanders stop incoming PCS moves AFNS 16 Mar 2011 -- Permanent-change-of-station moves to Yokota and Misawa air bases are delayed in the aftermath of an earthquake and tsunami.
Rescue Teams Reach Tsunami-Stricken Town VOA 16 Mar 2011 -- The estimated death toll from the earthquake and tsunami in Japan is now well over 10,000.
Snow, Hunger Add to Misery in Quake-Stricken Japan VOA 16 Mar 2011 -- A heavy snow fell over the piles of debris of the devastated towns in northeast Japan, leaving survivors huddling for warmth as they waited for emergency supplies of food, water and fuel.
Death toll in Japan quake nears 4,000 RIA Novosti 16 Mar 2011 -- More than 3,600 people died and over 7,500 are missing in the wake of a series of natural disasters that hit Japan last week.
Japan orders water injection into Fukushima no. 4 reactor RIA Novosti 15 Mar 2011 -- The Japanese authorities ordered the injection of water into the spent nuclear fuel pool at the No. 4 reactor.
Workers Struggle to Contain Crisis at Japan Nuclear Plant VOA 15 Mar 2011 -- Workers at a badly damaged nuclear plant in northeastern Japan are continuing their best efforts to avoid a nuclear catastrophe.
Setbacks at Japan Plant Raise Risk of Nuclear Disaster VOA 15 Mar 2011 -- Fears of a nuclear catastrophe in Japan are rising, as radiation leaks are at dangerous levels around a crippled nuclear power plant.
Japan on alert as nuclear disaster looms RIA Novosti 15 Mar 2011 -- A blast, the third in the past two days, ripped through the Fukushima 1 Nuclear Power Plant in northeastern Japan.
Japan Says Radiation Levels Drop After Earlier Spike RFE/RL 15 Mar 2011 -- Japan says radiation at a quake-striken nuclear plant has dropped after earlier reaching levels dangerous to human health.
Radiation around Japanese power plant poses health hazard RIA Novosti 15 Mar 2011 -- Chief Cabinet Secretary Edano: Level of radiation around Japan's Fukushima No.1 nuclear power plant is high enough to affect human health.
Fukushima operator says will evacuate control room personnel RIA Novosti 15 Mar 2011 -- Operator of Japan's Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant: All personnel must be evacuated from the control room at the plant's reactor No.1 after radiation levels became critical.
Two more reactors start heating up at Japanese nuke station RIA Novosti 15 Mar 2011 -- Temperatures have been rising slightly in units Five and Six of the Japanese Fukushima 1 Nuclear Power Plant.
Fire put out at 4th reactor of Japan's Fukushima NPP RIA Novosti 15 Mar 2011 -- Fire was extinguished on Tuesday at the 4th reactor of Japan's quake-hit Fukushima nuclear power plant.
Russian nuclear corp. worried by Fukushima disaster RIA Novosti 15 Mar 2011 -- Russian state nuclear corporation Rosatom is worried by the situation at three units of the Japanese Fukushima 1 nuclear power plant.
China Begins Evacuation of Nationals from Japan VOA 15 Mar 2011 -- Thousands of Chinese are reported to be stranded in tsunami and quake hit areas of Japan that are also facing a radiation threat.
China prepares for radioactive threat following Japan disasters RIA Novosti 15 Mar 2011 -- China is actively preparing for a possible radioactive threat following a massive quake and tsunami in Japan.
CTF 76 Heads Maritime Response Cell Supporting Earthquake, Tsunami Relief NNS 15 Mar 2011 -- Commander, Task Force 76 directed to organize a Maritime Response cell on March 11, to coordinate U.S. Naval relief efforts.
Officials Urge Precautions at Yokosuka, Atsugi AFPS 15 Mar 2011 -- Officials told personnel in and around Fleet Activities Yokosuka and Naval Air Facility Atsugi in Japan today to limit outdoor activities and to turn off air conditioning due to the detection of low levels of radioactivity.
More US Navy Crews Exposed to Radiation as Japan Relief Efforts Mount VOA 15 Mar 2011 -- The U.S. Navy says several more U.S. military personnel flying relief missions into eastern Japan were exposed to low-level radiation.
Misawa AB recovering from historic earthquake AFNS 15 Mar 2011 -- Misawa Air Base was shaken March 11 by the 8.9 magnitude earthquake that struck Japan but sustained only minor damage with no injuries or loss of life.
USS Preble Contributes to Humanitarian Efforts in Japan NNS 15 Mar 2011 -- USS Preble was one of the first U.S. Navy assets to respond with humanitarian assistance and disaster relief in Japan March 15.
Earthquake Damage Increases in Japan KCNA 15 Mar 2011 -- The damage caused by the disastrous earthquake that hit Japan on March 11 is on the steady increase.
EU to send assistance to Japan RIA Novosti 15 Mar 2011 -- The European Union is sending aid to Japan to help it deal with the aftermath of earthquakes and a tsunami.
Japan Rushing Aid to Survivors; Food, Water Supplies Low VOA 15 Mar 2011 -- The government of Japan is rushing doctors and aid supplies to thousands of people left without food, water and shelter in the aftermath of a catastrophic earthquake and tsunami.
Press Briefing by Press Secretary Jay Carney, Nuclear Regulatory Commission Chairman Greg Jaczko and Deputy Secretary of Energy Dan Poneman, 3/14/2011 The White House 14 Mar 2011
New Explosion Heard at Japanese Nuclear Plant VOA 14 Mar 2011 -- Workers at a nuclear plant in Japan are battling to prevent a meltdown in one of the reactors.
Japan asks IAEA to help avert nuclear disaster RIA Novosti 14 Mar 2011 -- Japanese authorities asked the IAEA to send experts to help the country manage the emergency situation at its Fukushima nuclear power plant.
Tokyo warns of possible reactor meltdown RIA Novosti 14 Mar 2011 -- Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Edano: High likelihood of a meltdown at all three reactors of Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant.
Japan Scrambles To Curb Nuclear Damage RFE/RL 14 Mar 2011 -- Japanese authorities are taking steps to prevent a third explosion at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant.
Emergency continues at Japan's Fukushima nuclear power plant RIA Novosti 14 Mar 2011 -- Fears of a possible nuclear disaster remain high in Japan.
Troubles Mount at Quake-Stricken Japanese Nuclear Reactor VOA 14 Mar 2011 -- An explosion blew the roof and outer walls off of the number 3 unit Monday at the Fukushima nuclear power plant.
Water levels back up at Fukushima's No. 3 reactor RIA Novosti 14 Mar 2011 -- Injection of water into reactor No. 2 at Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant in northeastern Japan has restarted.
Second blast at Japan nuclear reactor injures 11 RIA Novosti 14 Mar 2011 -- At least eleven people were injured in a second explosion at the Fukushima nuclear plant in north-eastern Japan on Monday, NHK TV said.
Russia sends rescuers, nuke specialists to quake-hit Japan RIA Novosti 14 Mar 2011 -- Russian specialists from Rosenergoatom and the Nuclear Safety Institute will fly to Japan.
Seventh Fleet Repositions Ships after Contamination Detected NNS 14 Mar 2011 -- The US 7th Fleet has temporarily repositioned its ships and aircraft away from the Fukushima Dai-Ichi Nuclear Power Plant after detecting low level contamination.
Radiation Forces U.S. 7th Fleet to Reposition Ships AFPS 14 Mar 2011 -- The US 7th Fleet has temporarily repositioned its ships and aircraft away from Japan’s Fukushima Dai-Ichi Nuclear Power Plant after detecting low-level contamination.
Army ready to help after earthquake, tsunami in Japan Army News 14 Mar 2011 -- U.S. Army Japan/1st Corps Forward has activated its Emergency Operations Center and is mobilizing a disaster assessment team.
Service Members Assist Japanese Quake Victims AFPS 14 Mar 2011 -- Japan’s earthquake and tsunami are tragedies on an epic scale, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell said today, and the U.S. military will do all it can to help.
31st MEU headed for Japan coast prepared to assist USMC News 14 Mar 2011 -- The 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit, embarked aboard three ships of Amphibious Squadron 11, is heading towards the coast of mainland Japan.
Essex ARG Ready to Provide Assistance to Japan NNS 14 Mar 2011 -- The Essex Amphibious Ready Group and 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit are preparing to provide humanitarian assistance/disaster relief support to Japan.
Pacific Air Forces Airmen deploy to Japan to aid relief efforts AFNS 14 Mar 2011 -- A C-17 Globemaster III carrying a team of Pacific Air Force Airmen departed here March 12 to support ongoing disaster relief efforts in Japan.
Airmen deploy to support relief operations AFNS 14 Mar 2011 -- Approximately 100 Airmen and three MC-130P Combat Shadows from the 353rd Special Operations Group deployed to Yokota Air Base March 12.
Mobility Airmen deliver search-and-rescue teams to Japan AFNS 14 Mar 2011 -- Two Air Mobility Command C-17 Globemaster IIIs departed the U.S. March 12 to deliver search and rescue equipment and personnel to Japan.
Air transportation Airmen support Japan relief operations AFNS 14 Mar 2011 -- On March 11, an 8.9-magnitude earthquake struck Japan and a tsunami followed, creating widespread destruction throughout the country.
Damage by Quake and Tsunami Expands in Japan KCNA 14 Mar 2011 -- Damage caused by Friday's catastrophic earthquake and tsunami expands in Japan.
Tokyo Faces Months of Power Cuts After Quake VOA 14 Mar 2011 -- The 35 million inhabitants of Tokyo and its surroundings are getting prepared for enforced power cuts that could last until the end of April.
Fatalities, Destruction Litter Japan's Tsunami-Hit Northeast Coast VOA 14 Mar 2011 -- Military helicopters fly overhead surveying damage and searching for survivors along the coast Miyagi Prefecture in northeastern Japan.
Police say 5,000 dead or missing in Japan quake RIA Novosti 14 Mar 2011 -- The number of those killed or missing after Friday's massive earthquake and tsunami in northeastern Japan has topped 5,000.
Rescue operation in Japan halted after false tsunami alert RIA Novosti 14 Mar 2011 -- Rescue workers and locals trying to piece together the remains of their obliterated homes were evacuated from Serandai's devastated coastline.
Obama Reiterates US Support for Japan VOA 14 Mar 2011 -- President Barack Obama has reiterated U.S. support for Japan, pledging any assistance needed as the nation recovers from multiple disasters.
Japanese Engineers Struggle With Several Damaged Nuclear Reactors VOA 13 Mar 2011 -- The estimated death toll from last week's massive earthquake off the coast of Japan and resulting tsunami climbed past 10,000 people on Sunday as authorities raced to deal with the threat of multiple nuclear reactor meltdowns. Japan's prime minister says his country is facing its worst crisis since World War II.
Japan Faces Worst Crisis Since WWII RFE/RL 13 Mar 2011 -- Japanese Prime Minister Naoto Kan has called for the country to come together in order to overcome what he called the worst crisis facing the nation since World War II.
Japan's Fukushima quake-hit nuke plant under control - UN nuclear watchdog RIA Novosti 13 Mar 2011 -- Japanese specialists have been able to bring under control the situation at the Fukushima nuclear power plant, damaged by Friday's devastating earthquake and posing the risk of a radiation leak, a source at the UN nuclear watchdog told RIA Novosti over the phone on Sunday.
Japan's earthquake, tsunami death toll likely to exceed 10,000 RIA Novosti 13 Mar 2011 -- The death toll from a devastating earthquake and tsunami that hit northeastern Japan on Friday may climb to over 10,000 people in the Miyagi prefecture alone, local police chief Naoto Takeuchi said on Sunday.
New blast may hit Japan's troubled nuke plant after tremor - government RIA Novosti 13 Mar 2011 -- A new blast may hit Japan's Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant damaged by Friday's devastating earthquake, Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yukio Edano said on Sunday.
Fears of nuclear disaster mount in Japan RIA Novosti 13 Mar 2011 -- As large-scale rescue efforts are under way in Japan following Friday's devastating earthquake and tsunami, the country has faced a growing threat from its troubled Fukushima nuclear power plant. A blast that destroyed the building of the plant's Number One reactor on Saturday has raised concerns of a possible Chernobyl-scale nuclear disaster.
Japan rates Fukushima nuclear accident as 4 on 7-point scale RIA Novosti 13 Mar 2011 -- The Japanese authorities have described the accident at the Fukushima nuclear power plant as a "nuclear accident with local consequences" in a report to the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), the DPA news agency said.
Japanese Quake Survivors Await Relief VOA 13 Mar 2011 -- Hundreds of thousands of survivors of Japan's worst modern-day earthquake huddled for a third night Sunday in makeshift shelters, cut off from food supplies, heat, electricity and rescue, as engineers probe the source of a radiation surge at a second nuclear plant on Japan's northeastern coast.
Japan Continues Rescue Operations Following Massive Quake, Tsunami VOA 13 Mar 2011 -- Efforts are continuing in Japan to locate and rescue thousands of people still unaccounted for after Friday's earthquake and tsunami.
Explosion at Japan’s nuclear plant IRNA 12 Mar 2011 -- An explosion occurred at Japan’s nuclear power plant in Fukushima Saturday, Japanese media reported.
Japan officials try to allay radiation scare from Fukushima reactor IRNA 12 Mar 2011 -- Officials try to calm residents wary of a possible radiation leak -- or worse -- at the Fukushima power plant, which lost its cooling system in Friday's massive earthquake.
Japanese Officials Downplay Radiation Risks In Quake Aftermath RFE/RL 12 Mar 2011 -- Japanese officials now say an explosion today at an earthquake-damaged nuclear plant destroyed the building where the plant's reactor is located but did not damage the metal housing that protects the reactor core.
Japan reactor container 'undamaged,' radiation 'falling' RIA Novosti 12 Mar 2011 -- There was no explosion in the reactor container at a nuclear power station in the earthquake-hit Fukushima prefecture, Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Yukio Edano said on Saturday.
Radiation 'high' at Japan nuclear plant RIA Novosti 12 Mar 2011 -- The radiation level near the Fukushima Number One nuclear power station rose to 1,015 mircrosieverts per hour on Saturday, the prefecture said.
Japan wrestling with nuclear plant blast, quake aftermaths RIA Novosti 12 Mar 2011 -- Radiation levels at Japan's quake-hit Fukushima No.1 nuclear plant are within the norm, and the blast only hit the surface of the unit, leaving the reactor intact, a government spokesman said on Saturday.
Fears of nuclear disaster rise in quake-hit Japan RIA Novosti 12 Mar 2011 -- Fears of a radioactive leak are rising in Japan, which is struggling to recover from a devastating earthquake and tsunami that hit the north of the country on Friday, killing at least 703 people.
Some 215,000 evacuated from quake-hit areas in Japan RIA Novosti 12 Mar 2011 -- Japanese authorities evacuated about 215,000 residents from areas worst affected by a powerful earthquake and tsunami, police said on Saturday.
Japan informs UN atomic watchdog of explosion at nuclear power plant UN News Centre 12 Mar 2011 -- The United Nations atomic watchdog agency today reported that Japan's nuclear safety body has informed it of an explosion at one of the reactors at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, which was affected by yesterday's massive earthquake, and that an assessment is under way.
Second Japanese Nuclear Reactor At Risk of Exploding VOA 12 Mar 2011 -- Nuclear safety agency says the cooling system has stopped working at the Fukushima number three reactor
US Nuclear Experts Worry About Possible Japan Reactor Meltdown VOA 12 Mar 2011 -- Tens of thousands of residents near a nuclear plant in Japan were evacuated Saturday after an explosion at the plant, 240 kilometers north of Tokyo. The reactor failure follows a devastating earthquake and tsunami that struck northeastern Japan on Friday.
Obama Offers Aid, Condolences to Japan VOA 11 Mar 2011 -- U.S. President Barack Obama says Americans are sending their thoughts and prayers to the Japanese people after Friday’s catastrophic earthquake and tsunami. The president says the United States is ready to help.
Japan's Tsunami Death Toll Seen Reaching 1,000 VOA 11 Mar 2011 -- Japan's central island of Honshu is waking up to scenes of widespread death and devastation from a massive earthquake and tsunami that hit its Pacific coast Friday, with local media saying as many as 1,000 people may have been killed.
DoD News: Statement by Defense Secretary Robert Gates on Japan Earthquake and Tsunami DoD 11 Mar 2011
Gates Pledges U.S. Help for Japan AFPS 11 Mar 2011 -- The United States is prepared to help Japan deal with the aftermath of the massive 8.9 magnitude earthquake and tsunami that struck today “in any way we possibly can,” Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said in Bahrain.
Fire break out at nuclear power plant after Japanese quake IRNA 11 Mar 2011 -- A fire has broken out at one of Japan's nuclear power plants after the 8.9 magnitude earthquake that struck the country on Friday, according to news agency reports.
Hundreds Feared Dead After Quake, Tsunami Hit Northeastern Japan RFE/RL 11 Mar 2011 -- Hundreds of people are feared dead after a massive 8.9 magnitude earthquake hit northeastern Japan today, triggering a tsunami that swept away houses, vehicles, boats, and buildings.
Japan evacuates 2,000 people near nuclear plant RIA Novosti 11 Mar 2011 -- Some 2,000 people living near northeast Japan's Fukushima nuclear plant were told to evacuate on Friday following a massive earthquake.
Earthquake, tsunami wreak havoc in Japan RIA Novosti 11 Mar 2011 -- The massive earthquake and tsunami that hit northeastern Japan on Friday left thousands without drinking water and provoked panic buying.
US Offers Japan 'Immediate' Earthquake Aid VOA 11 Mar 2011 -- The United States says it is prepared to immediately offer Japan whatever assistance it might need in the wake of Friday’s massive earthquake. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton says the United States has flown coolant to a threatened Japanese nuclear power plant.
UN voices sorrow and pledges assistance after deadly quake and tsunami strike Japan UN News Centre 11 Mar 2011 -- Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon expressed deep sorrow today and offered the full support of the United Nations after a massive earthquake and subsequent tsunami struck Japan, killing dozens of people and destroying towns, villages and large swathes of infrastructure.
U.S. 7th Fleet Completes Bi-lateral and Joint Ballistic Missile Defense Training Exercise NNS 04 Mar 2011 -- Commander, U.S. 7th Fleet (C7F), Japan Maritime Self Defense Force (JMSDF) and various other commands throughout Japan, the Pacific and continental United States completed Fleet Synthetic Training (FST) joint exercise 11-71, March 3.
KCNA Terms Japan's Actions against Chongryon Politically Terrorism KCNA 03 Mar 2011 -- The Resolution and Collection Corporation of Japan committed an outrageous action on Feb. 21.
Russian plan to deploy missiles on disputed islands 'regrettable' RIA Novosti 02 Mar 2011 -- Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Edano: Japan is concerned over Russia's plans to deploy missiles on a group of disputed islands.
Moscow imposes entry ban on Japanese CEOs for anti-Russian rhetoric RIA Novosti 02 Mar 2011 -- Moscow has imposed an entry ban on two Japanese companies' heads for anti-Russian rhetoric.
Japan Can Never Hide Truth about Its Crimes KCNA 02 Mar 2011 -- Information disclosing the truth about the Japanese imperialists' drafting of Koreans for forced labor is being disclosed one after another.
Japan's "Pacifist Constitution" at Stake of Dissolution KCNA 01 Mar 2011 -- The U.S. puts increasing pressure on Japan to convert its "Pacifist Constitution" into a war constitution.
Russia-Japan Strategic Dialogue Draws Attention KCNA 01 Mar 2011 -- The Russia-Japan strategic dialogue was reported to be held in Tokyo on March 2.
Russia Rejects Japan's Remarks about Southern Kuriles KCNA 01 Mar 2011 -- The Russian Foreign Ministry flatly rejected Japan's remarks about the Southern Kuriles on Feb. 24.
Japan Urged to Opt for Settling Its Past - Rodong Sinmun KCNA 01 Mar 2011 -- It is nearly a century since the March First Popular Uprising and more than 60 years have elapsed since the Japanese imperialists' defeat.

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Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD)

March 2011 - Japan Special Weapons News