Soaring energy prices may scupper this year's Maritime Self-Defense Force naval parade, an official said Wednesday.
Involving about 90 warships and 170 aircraft, the annual MSDF review, which began in 1954, has never been canceled, even during the oil crises of the 1970s.
This year's drill was planned for November, although official dates have not been announced.
"In order to secure enough fuel for emergency relief activities, we've cut down on the scope of our exercises, but there is a limit," an MSDF member said on condition of anonymity, citing department policy.
"Now we are considering canceling the upcoming large-scale naval drill, which would consume large amounts of fuel."
In a bid to offset the impact of the huge runup in oil prices on the economy, the government announced Tuesday it would provide ¥74.5 billion in emergency aid to the ailing fishing industry, after fishermen staged their largest-ever national strike in mid-July.
Oil prices have surged to new highs this year. Crude was $122 a barrel Wednesday after spiking to a record high of more than $146 recently.
Oil prices are also affecting the Emperor's official duties and altering summer holiday plans for many Japanese.