U.S. Air Force deploys 356th F-35A squadron to Kadena Air Base under Pacific fighter rotation scheme

“Our mission is to ensure air dominance whenever and wherever we’re called,” said U.S. Air Force Maj. John Toner, 356th EFS deployed director of operations. “Every training event and every sortie strengthens our ability to deliver combat airpower and ensure stability across the Pacific.”

The squadron regularly integrates with F-35B Lightning II aircraft from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni and participates in large-scale exercises such as Keen Sword. These activities are designed to refine operations from alternate locations while strengthening interoperability and reinforcing the U.S.–Japan alliance across the Indo-Pacific.

Working with E-3 Sentry aircraft from the 961st Airborne Air Control Squadron provides airborne command and control across air, land and sea domains. Combined large-force exercises with the Japan Air Self-Defense Force further develop coordinated operations and shared combat readiness.

“We’re getting on the same sheet of music and operating at a common level,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Ryan Beveridge, 356th EFS pilot. “Integrating with our allied partners out here has been invaluable. That kind of trust and understanding is what makes deterrence real.”

Support from the Airmen of the 18th Wing enables rotating units to deploy and operate rapidly, sustaining a continuous presence in the region. This infrastructure allows squadrons such as the 356th EFS to become operational almost immediately on arrival.

As part of Pacific Air Forces, the 356th EFS employs the F-35A’s stealth, sensor fusion and electronic warfare capabilities in contested environments. These features allow pilots to see farther, decide faster and connect platforms across the battlefield.

“The F-35 gives us an edge that extends beyond the jet itself,” Toner said. “It’s a force multiplier that links our forces, amplifying deterrence across the theater.”

Based in Alaska near the Arctic Circle, the squadron trains year-round in extreme conditions that build resilience and adaptability for deployments. The geographic proximity between Alaska and Okinawa supports rapid deployment and sustained operations throughout the Pacific.

“Deterrence at altitude is built on preparation,” Beveridge said. “Every sortie we fly and every partner we train with ensures our allies know we’re ready and our adversaries know we’re capable.”

From Arctic training ranges to the skies over Okinawa, the 356th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron continues to demonstrate US airpower and commitment. The unit remains focused on readiness and deterrence in support of stability across the Indo-Pacific.