US F-35 Jets Launch from Japan’s Kaga Amid Rising Tensions

UPDATE: Four F-35B stealth fighter jets from the United States launched from the Japanese aircraft carrier Kaga during a military exercise in the Philippine Sea on October 19, 2023. This crucial operation comes as U.S. and Japanese forces intensify their joint capabilities in response to escalating military threats from China.

The images released by the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing show the advanced F-35B jets taking off and landing vertically on the Kaga, which has been converted from a helicopter carrier to strengthen Japan’s defense posture in the southwestern islands. These islands are seen as vulnerable in case of a Chinese aggression towards Taiwan, a situation that Tokyo has labeled as a “survival-threatening situation” for Japan.

The exercise, known as Annual Exercise or ANNUALEX, involved forces from the U.S., Japan, Australia, Canada, France, and New Zealand, emphasizing readiness and deterrence against regional instability. The U.S. Navy stated the operation enhances joint maritime strike capabilities. In addition to the F-35B jets, a U.S. Navy CMV-22B tiltrotor aircraft was also present, showcasing the interoperability of allied forces.

Why This Matters: The deployment of F-35B jets aboard the Kaga marks a significant advancement in U.S.-Japan military collaboration. The Kaga’s ability to host these jets reflects Japan’s commitment to enhancing its defense capabilities amid growing tensions with China. This development is critical as it supports the U.S. military’s strategic presence in the western Pacific, aimed at deterring potential threats.

The Kaga has previously operated alongside U.S. F-35B jets during trials and exercises, including earlier this summer with British aircraft. The U.S. 7th Fleet confirmed the importance of ANNUALEX in improving combat interoperability and readiness across all platforms, serving as a deterrent against regional aggression.

Next Steps: Observers are keen to see when Japan will fully integrate its own F-35B jets aboard the Kaga for operational deployment. This interoperability could substantially enhance the flexibility and effectiveness of U.S. forces in the region, crucial for maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific.

As tensions rise, the collaboration between U.S. and Japanese forces signifies a robust response to the evolving security landscape in the region. Further details on future exercises and deployments are expected as both nations continue to fortify their defense strategies.