The Yokohama Marine Accident Tribunal determined Jan. 22 that the Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyer Atago was mainly at fault in a fatal predawn collision with a fishing boat off Chiba Prefecture last February.

The government inquiry panel recommended in its decision that the 3rd Escort Flotilla, to which the Aegis-equipped destroyer belongs, provide thorough instructions on safe navigation — the second such action meted out against an MSDF unit.

The verdict was keenly anticipated as observers wondered whether the trial-style government panel would acknowledge the MSDF's responsibility in the accident and issue a recommendation against the flotilla.