A Japanese Self-Defense Forces aircraft has departed for Poland to deliver aid supplies to countries near Ukraine hosting people who fled the Russian invasion.

The SDF C-2 transporter left Japan Sunday morning.

Prior to its departure, a send-off ceremony was held at an Air Self-Defense Force base in Saitama Prefecture, north of Tokyo.

ASDF Lieutenant General Morikawa Ryusuke said it is an important mission for bringing peace and stability to the world. He told members of the departing unit to ensure safe and secure operations.

The Defense Ministry says the transporter will pick up supplies stockpiled in a warehouse in the United Arab Emirates. It will then carry blankets, tarps, solar powered lanterns and other supplies to Poland.

Its mission calls for relief goods to be transported to Poland and Romania roughly once a week through the end of June.

It is a humanitarian relief operation based on Japan's act on cooperation with UN peacekeeping operations. It is being conducted at the request of the office of the UN High Commissioner for Refugees.