2 GSDF tanks sent to clear debris at Fukushima plant

The Yomiuri Shimbun

The Ground Self-Defense Force has sent two tanks to help shift debris that is hampering repair work at a stricken nuclear power plant in Fukushima Prefecture.

The Type 74 tanks can be fitted with a large metal blade like that of a bulldozer, and the crew inside are protected by thick metal that blocks radiation.

The massive March 11 Tohoku earthquake and ensuing tsunami, as well as several explosions at the plant's reactors in the following days, have left the Fukushima No. 1 nuclear power plant littered with rubble and debris, which has hampered desperate efforts by the SDF and Tokyo Fire Department to repair the reactors.

The tanks from the GSDF's Camp Komakado in Gotemba, Shizuoka Prefecture, were transported to Fukushima on Sunday evening.

The tanks arrived at the power plant Monday and began operations after receiving a request from the government.