A source within the Defence Ministry, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed that the incident took place at a JSDF-controlled facility located within the American base. The cause of the explosion has yet to be determined, and an investigation is currently underway.

Despite the blast, authorities have stated that there is no immediate threat to nearby residents. No evacuation orders have been issued, and officials have assured the public that there is no risk of further explosions or fire at the site.

Kadena Air Base, the largest US military installation in the Asia-Pacific region, plays a key role in joint US-Japan defence cooperation. Located in the southern prefecture of Okinawa, the base has long been a point of contention among locals, who have expressed concerns over safety, noise, and the heavy concentration of American military facilities on the island.

The Defence Ministry is expected to release further details once the investigation into the cause of the explosion progresses. The condition of the injured JSDF personnel has not been disclosed, though none of the injuries are believed to be life-threatening.

The incident underscores the inherent risks associated with bomb disposal and munitions handling, even in controlled military environments, and is likely to prompt renewed calls for reviewing safety protocols within both Japanese and US military operations stationed in Okinawa.