noun, used as a suffix
higher-grade officer rank (JMSDF)
Used as a suffix in Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force ranks, e.g. 一等海佐 (captain), 二等海佐 (commander), 三等海佐 (lieutenant commander).
See also: 一等海佐 (いっとうかいさ) · 海尉
彼は一等海佐に昇進した。
He was promoted to captain (JMSDF).
海佐以上の階級は将官と呼ばれる。
Ranks above 海佐 are called flag officers.