US, Japan strengthen ties with landmark air exercise

A historic milestone in military collaboration was reached as the US Air Force and Japan's Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) conducted their first-ever joint exercise featuring the B-2 Spirit stealth bomber and the F-35A stealth fighter jet.

On September 12, 2024, the US Air Force revealed that its B-2 stealth bomber has conducted its first-ever joint training exercise with Japanese F-35A stealth fighters over the Pacific Ocean. This marks a historic milestone in the collaboration between the two nations' advanced aircraft, Caliber.Az reports, citing foreign media.

The exercise was part of ongoing Bomber Task Force (BTF) operations in the Indo-Pacific region. A B-2 Spirit from the 110th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, departing from Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base Amberley in Australia, met up with F-35A stealth fighters from Japan’s Misawa Air Base.

Taking place on September 10, 2024, the joint operation focused on integration and aerial refueling missions, enhancing interoperability between the US and Japanese air forces. Lt. Col. Justin Meyer, commander of the 110th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron, hailed the exercise as a significant achievement in bilateral integration. Lt. Col. Meyer emphasised that integrating B-2 Spirit pilots with Japan Air Self-Defense Force’s (JASDF) fifth-generation aircraft represents a major advancement in their joint operations. He highlighted that this collaboration not only boosts their combined readiness and interoperability but also underscores their shared commitment to regional peace and stability. 

The JASDF noted that the training aimed to bolster Japan-US response capabilities and tactical skills. The exercise featured four JASDF F-35As from the 3rd Air Wing and Northern Aircraft Control and Warning Wing, alongside a B-2 and a KC-135 from the US Air Force. The US Air Force also released images showing the B-2 Spirit and JASDF F-35As in formation, reflecting the strengthened military partnership and enhanced strategic cooperation between the two countries. The US Air Force’s B-2 Spirit stealth bombers have been actively engaged in Bomber Task Force (BTF) operations in the Indo-Pacific region for nearly three weeks. The deployment, which began on August 16, 2024, marks the return of these strategic assets to Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) Base Amberley after an absence of almost two years. 

This mission features bombers from the 509th Bomb Wing and the 131st Bomb Wing, both based at Whiteman Air Force Base in Missouri, and is supported by two KC-135R tankers. RAAF Base Amberley, located near Brisbane on Australia’s east coast, previously hosted the B-2s in 2022 for the “Koolendong 22” exercise, where they conducted joint drills with Australian F-35As. The current deployment is strategically significant, particularly given Australia’s potential role as a staging ground in any future conflict with China.

This re-engagement underscores the US commitment to maintaining a strong presence and readiness in the Indo-Pacific region, showcasing their ability to navigate a complex and evolving security landscape. According to the US Air Force, these operations highlight the United States' dedication to training alongside allies and partners to enhance interoperability and support a free and open Indo-Pacific. 

In early September, the US Pacific Air Forces (PACAF) announced that a B-2 Spirit bomber had performed a precision bombing drill at RAAF Base Amberley, part of a broader effort to demonstrate the B-2’s operational flexibility and advanced capabilities. The B-2 Spirit, celebrated for its stealth technology, long-range strike capabilities, and precision armament, is a vital asset in the US strategic arsenal. It is one of only three bomber types still equipped with nuclear gravity bombs, underscoring its advanced role within the US inventory. The B-2A Spirit also became the first USAF aircraft to carry the B61-12 nuclear bomb, further elevating its strategic importance. During the current Bomber Task Force mission, B-2s conducted hot pit refueling at RAAF Base Amberley last month. 

This technique allows aircraft to refuel without shutting down their engines, enhancing operational readiness and flexibility during missions. In June 2024, B-2 Spirits made headlines by landing in Guam for the first time since 2019. This deployment was seen as a response to escalating tensions with China and highlighted Guam’s strategic role as a forward base for US bombers and fighters. While the USAF has emphasised that the B-2’s deployment aims primarily at deterrence, the increased presence in Australia supports broader efforts to strengthen regional security.