The Maritime Self-Defense Force was ordered Jan. 15 to end its refueling mission in the Indian Ocean in support of U.S.-led anti-terrorism operations in and around Afghanistan, as a law authorizing it expires.

Defense Minister Toshimi Kitazawa issued the order that terminates at midnight the MSDF operations that have continued for most of the period since December 2001.

As an alternative support measure, Japan has pledged to offer up to $5 billion in civilian aid to Afghanistan.