Japan's Self-Defense Force parachute unit has shown to media a drill aimed at preparing for attacks on the country's remote islands.

The 2,000-strong First Airborne Brigade of the Ground Self-Defense Force held the drill at a training ground in Narashino City, near Tokyo, on Thursday.

Participating members jumped one after another from aircraft of the SDF and US forces flying about 340 meters high.

The drill was based on a scenario of trying to retake a remote island that an enemy had invaded. After practicing recapturing facilities with support from helicopters, they checked procedures to deploy surface-to-ship missile units and other personnel.

The Self-Defense Forces have been trying in recent years to beef up their capabilities for defending remote islands in view of China's increased maritime activity, and have held drills with US forces for that purpose.

The January drills used to be open to the public. But only limited media coverage was allowed last year and this year due to the coronavirus pandemic.