Katsutoshi Kawano

Katsutoshi Kawano



ADM Katsutoshi Kawano (Retired) is former Chief of Staff, Joint Staff, Japan Self-Defense Forces. A graduate of National Defense Academy with a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering, Katsu was commissioned as a surface warfare officer in 1979. He earned a master's degree in lnternational Relations from Tsukuba University in 1990. ADM Kawano is also a graduate of Command and Staff Course at the US Naval War College. The ADM's career as a surface warfare officer includes assignments aboard JS Haruna, JS Shrrane, and JS Oyodo as Commanding Officer from August 1992 toAugust '1993. His fleet command assignments include Commander, Escort Division 3; Commander, Escort Flotilla 3; Commander, Mine Warfare Force; Commander Fleet Escort Force; and, Commander in Chief, Self-Defense Fleet prior to assuming his post as Chief of Staff, Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force on 26 July 2012. Some of the most notable responsibilities he has held ashore are Director General, Administration Department MSO; Director General, Operations and Plans Department MSO; and Vice Chief of Staff, Joint Staff. ADM Kawano had served as the 5th Chief of Staff,Joint Staff from Olctober 14, 2014 until his retirement on Apri1 1,2019.

Links for Katsutoshi Kawano


This page last updated August 08, 2025 sa