Pentagon increases fighter jet presence in Japan

The US Department of Defense is set to bolster its fighter jet presence at several military bases in Japan. This initiative supports a $10-billion investment aimed at strengthening the US-Japan military alliance and enhancing security in the Indo-Pacific region.

The Pentagon's plan includes replacing 48 F-15C/D combat aircraft at Kadena Air Force Base in Okinawa with 36 F-15EXs, following a 2022 decision to use “newer, more advanced systems” to fulfil treaty obligations with Japan. During this transition, the Joint Force will maintain a rotational presence of fourth and fifth-generation fighter jets at the base, Caliber.Az reports, citing the article posted in the foreign media.

Additionally, the US Air Force will withdraw 36 F-16 Fighting Falcons from Misawa Air Base, replacing them with 48 F-35A Lightning IIs. The US Marine Corps will also reconfigure its F-35Bs stationed in Iwakuni as part of this enhanced presence, ensuring a continuous and rotational aircraft presence as the transition progresses. The Department of Defense emphasized that stationing the most advanced tactical aircraft in Japan underscores the US commitment to Japan's defence and their shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.

In a separate notice, the US Air Force announced the resumption of flight operations for the CV-22 Osprey VTOL aircraft at Yokota Air Base in Western Tokyo. This comes after an incident in November 2023 where an Osprey crashed off the coast of Japan, resulting in the deaths of eight US airmen. The decision to resume flights was based on a meticulous, data-driven approach, supported by maintenance and procedural mitigation training to ensure safety. Col. Matthew Davis, Special Operations Squadron Commander, reaffirmed the commitment to safety for both aircraft operators and the community, expressing full confidence in the implemented safety measures and the professionals involved.