noun
Japan Self-Defense Forces; JSDF
Refers specifically to Japan's post-war military organization. Often used in news and formal contexts.
自衛隊は災害救助にも出動する。
The Self-Defense Forces are also deployed for disaster relief.
彼は自衛隊に入隊した。
He joined the JSDF.
noun
self-defense force
General term for a military force intended for self-defense, applicable to other countries' forces in some contexts, but most commonly understood as Japan's JSDF.
その国は強力な自衛隊を持っている。
That country has a strong self-defense force.