On Wednesday, the Pentagon revealed its plan to send numerous advanced fighter jets to several bases in Japan. This move is part of a modernization strategy in response to escalating tensions with China, North Korea, and Russia.
According to a statement from the Defense Department, 36 F-15EX Eagles are set to be stationed at the Kadena Air Base in Okinawa Prefecture, located in southern Japan. These aircraft will be replacing the 48 F-15C/D Eagles in a planned divestment and modernization effort.
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Japan’s Misawa Air Base in Aomori is set to receive a boost with the deployment of 48 F-35A Lightning II fifth-generation fighters. These state-of-the-art jets will be replacing the 36 F-16 Fighting Falcons currently stationed there, further enhancing the base’s capabilities.
The Pentagon announced that it will modify the quantity of F-35B aircraft stationed at the Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni. The change is in support of the Service’s force design modernization implementation, but no specific details were provided.
In a joint effort with Japan, the Pentagon has recently announced a modernization plan that will span over the next few years. This plan involves investing over $10 billion in capabilities to reinforce the U.S.-Japan alliance, bolster regional deterrence, and promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. The Pentagon emphasized that this announcement was made with Japan’s close coordination and reflects their mutual commitment to strengthen their alliance.
Amidst the escalating global competition with an emboldened China and North Korea’s aggressive behavior, the Biden administration has taken steps to enhance its military presence in the Indo-Pacific region. Additionally, the US government is working towards strengthening its relations with Asian allies to ensure stability and security in the region. The North Korean regime’s continuous ballistic missile launches coupled with their aggressive rhetoric have further intensified the need for the US to take necessary measures.
As Ukraine finds itself in a state of war with Russia, the latter has turned to Beijing and Pyongyang to strengthen its position. With international sanctions looming over Russia’s invasion, it has become increasingly isolated from the democratic world.
In the previous month, two countries that were once Cold War allies made a significant move by signing a treaty similar to NATO. The treaty states that both countries will defend each other in case of an attack.
On Thursday, the Pentagon emphasized that its intention to deploy its top-notch tactical aircraft in Japan showcases the United States’ unwavering commitment to defend Japan and both nations’ mutual goal of fostering a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
