Japanese officials observe Italian F-35B operations as defence ties strengthen

In a move to bolster defence collaboration, Japanese military officials have been invited to board the Italian aircraft carrier Cavour during its visit to Japan. 

The Cavour, which is equipped with F-35B fighters, is showcasing its operations to Japanese personnel as Japan prepares to receive its own fleet of F-35Bs, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

This week, the Cavour docked at Yokosuka naval base, bringing with it six Italian Navy F-35Bs and two Italian Air Force F-35Bs. The visit provides Japanese officials with an opportunity to observe how these Short Takeoff and Vertical Landing (STOVL) jets operate from aircraft carriers.

Italian Navy Rear Admiral Giancarlo Ciappina highlighted that the visit aims to share expertise on operating the F-35B from carriers, reinforcing the growing defence partnership between Italy and Japan. "Our collaboration is evolving," Ciappina noted.

Italy is set to receive a total of 30 F-35Bs, with plans to integrate them into its naval operations. Japanese plans include adapting two helicopter carriers to accommodate its incoming fleet of 42 F-35Bs. Modifications include upgrading flight decks to handle the new aircraft.

Italian Defence Minister Guido Crosetto emphasized that the Cavour’s visit is not intended as a strategic message to nations like China or North Korea but rather to strengthen ties and ensure maritime security. The visit follows a similar observation by Japanese officials on the British carrier HMS Prince of Wales last year.

The cooperation among Italy, Japan, and the UK extends to the joint development of the sixth-generation Global Combat Air Program, further deepening defence collaboration between the nations.