News
Japan's Latest F-35 Sea Trials
November 07, 2024
Japan is strengthening allied deterrence in the Indo-Pacific, with the help of allies and the F-35.
A test pilot flew a specially instrumented F-35B from Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Two Three, supported by the F-35 Pax River Integrated Test Force.
Ship Shape
The F-35 sea trials are evaluating recent modifications to conduct fixed-wing aircraft operations.
Changes to the Kaga included adding heat-resistant material to the multi-functional destroyer’s flight deck, installing lights for nighttime operations, and reshaping the flight deck’s bow from a trapezoid to a rectangular shape.
Japan previously tested the F-35B from the deck of JS Izumo – the first fixed-wing aircraft to fly from a Japanese military ship since World War II.
Flying Colors
The F-35 is the fighter of choice across the Indo-Pacific and Europe, where allies are leveraging F-35 interoperability for joint training and operations.
“This test is essential for strengthening Japan's defense capabilities and is of utmost importance,” said Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Capt. Shusaku Takeuchi, commanding officer of JS Kaga.
“It also improves the interoperability between Japan and the U.S., strengthening the deterrence and response capabilities of the Japan-U.S. alliance, thereby contributing to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.”
Partners in the Pacific
That F-35 interoperability is also boosting partnerships with allies over the horizon.
Last year, Japanese military officers visited HMS Prince of Wales to watch F-35Bs operate offshore.
“It is quite possible we will one day see a Japanese F-35B landing on the deck of HMS Prince of Wales,” noted Royal Navy Lt. Commander Roderick Royce.
By 2035, there will be a permanent presence of over 300 F-35s in the Indo-Pacific, including Japan’s 5th Gen fleet.
