It is for this reason that JMSA has been called upon strongly to conduct appropriate guard and supervision operations even more so than before. This includes accommodating the increased sea area to be guarded and supervised, as a result of the establishment of new sea zones. In addition, JMSA needs to conduct surveys to establish the outer limits of the continental shelf to which Japan's sovereign rights extend.
Based on the above situation, JMSA is endeavoring to prepare itself to execute its operations even more efficiently through efforts such as procuring sophisticated and well-equipped patrol vessels, craft and aircraft. JMSA also intends to actively survey continental shelves and conduct other oceanograhic studies.
Furthermore, JMSA is working to upgrade the quality of its personnel involved in these operations, by strengthening its study and training programs.
It is from this perspective that the 1996 edition of the "Annual Report on Maritime Safety" notes matters of particular interest that took place during the year from September 1995 to July 1996, in the section "Major Incidents Related to Maritime Safety." In addition, Part I focuses on the ratification of UNCLOS and explains JMSA operations under the new order at sea in response to it. Part 2 describes the operations carried out mainly in 1995 and the current status of the agency.
