On Wednesday, the Pentagon declared that it will send numerous advanced fighter jets to various bases in Japan as part of its modernization initiative due to escalating tensions with China, North Korea, and Russia.
In a statement, the Defense Department announced that 36 F-15EX Eagles are set to be deployed to the Kadena Air Base located in Okinawa Prefecture, situated in southern Japan. These aircraft will be replacing the existing 48 F-15C/D Eagles in a planned divestment and modernization move.
The Misawa Air Base in Japan’s northeastern prefecture of Aomori will soon see a deployment of 48 F-35A Lightning II fifth-generation fighters. These advanced aircraft will be replacing the current fleet of 36 F-16 Fighting Falcons.
The Pentagon announced that it will modify the quantity of F-35B aircraft stationed at the Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni to assist in the implementation of the Service’s force design modernization efforts. No specific details were provided regarding the extent of the alteration.
In a move that has been closely coordinated with Japan, the Pentagon has announced a modernization plan that will be implemented over the next several years. This plan reflects over $10 billion of capability investments aimed at enhancing the U.S.-Japan alliance, bolstering regional deterrence, and strengthening peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Amidst growing global competition with an emboldened China, the Biden administration has been actively enhancing the United States’ military presence in the Indo-Pacific while also strengthening relationships with Asian allies. Additionally, North Korea’s belligerent actions and continued ballistic missile launches have further intensified the need for these measures.
Amidst the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, Russia has forged closer ties with Beijing and Pyongyang. The international sanctions imposed on Russia as a result of its invasion have led to its isolation from the democratic world.
In the previous month, the two former Cold War allies made an agreement similar to NATO’s treaty, pledging to provide military assistance to one another in case of an attack.
On Thursday, the Pentagon announced that its strategy to deploy its cutting-edge tactical aircraft in Japan is a clear indication of the unwavering commitment of the United States to defend Japan, and the shared vision of both nations towards a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
