noun
lieutenant-commander (JMSDF)
Specific rank in the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, equivalent to a lieutenant-commander in many navies.
彼は昨年、三等海佐に昇進した。
He was promoted to lieutenant-commander last year.
三等海佐として護衛艦の副長を務める。
As a lieutenant-commander, he serves as the executive officer of a destroyer.
Compound of 三等 (third class) + 海佐 (naval field officer), following the JMSDF rank naming pattern.