F-35A Lightning II jets arrive at Kadena Air Base as U.S. Air Force modernizes Pacific fighter fleet

By Defence Industry Europe

F-35A Lightning IIs from the 134th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, Vermont Air National Guard, arrived at Kadena Air Base, Japan, on January 13, 2025, marking the latest in a series of U.S. Air Force fighter deployments to the Pacific. This deployment forms part of the U.S. Air Force's broader strategy to modernise its fleet by replacing the ageing F-15C/D aircraft, which have been in service for over 40 years.

 

The 134th EFS will integrate with F-22 Raptors from the 525th EFS and F-16C Fighting Falcons from the 77th EFS to ensure continuous fighter capabilities in support of regional deterrence and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command objectives. This collaboration is designed to strengthen the U.S. military’s presence and operational effectiveness in the region.

Lt. Col. Trevor Callen, commander of the 134th EFS, expressed the squadron’s excitement about testing Agile Combat Employment (ACE) concepts during the deployment. He emphasised the importance of working alongside bilateral partners and Kadena’s flying units to enhance operational versatility in the Indo-Pacific.

Kadena Air Base, a critical hub for ACE, will continue to host rotational units that bolster its capabilities and project combat power in cooperation with U.S. allies and partners. These ongoing rotations ensure the 18th Wing remains flexible and poised to deliver effective airpower, deterring potential acts of aggression in the region.

 

 

Colonel David Deptula, commander of the 18th Wing Operations Group, reaffirmed Kadena’s commitment to regional deterrence, stating that the base’s ongoing operations are essential to the U.S.’s mission to defend Japan and maintain a free and open Indo-Pacific. The continued presence of rotational aircraft is integral to this enduring mission.

Throughout these deployments, the 18th Wing will maintain close cooperation with Japan, ensuring all visiting aircrews follow local noise abatement procedures and consider the impact on the surrounding community. The modernisation of capabilities in the Indo-Pacific remains a priority, with the transition to advanced aircraft at Kadena reinforcing the Department of Defense’s long-term commitment to regional security and its strong alliance with Japan.

 

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