The US Department of Defense has revealed a plan on 3 July 2024 to replace its aging F-16s at military bases in Japan with new aircraft. At Kadena Air Force Base on the strategic island of Okinawa, 48 F-15C/D aircraft will be replaced by 36 F-15EX (Eagle II) aircraft. Additionally, at Misawa Air Force Base in northern Japan, the Air Force will upgrade from 36 F-16s to 48 F-35A aircraft, increasing tactical aircraft capacity and capability. The Marine Corps Air Station in Iwakuni, southern Japan, will also modify the number of F-35B aircraft to support force design modernization efforts.
This upgrade program in coordination with the Japanese Government is expected to cost up to $10 billion over the next few years. The aim is to enhance regional deterrence and strengthen peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. The US Armed Forces operate the same type of aircraft as Japan, ensuring smooth supply of spares and equipment for timely fleet sustainment. This becomes crucial given the geographic proximity of the continental US from the Indo-Pacific theatre where tensions with China are escalating.
With Japan already operating 52 F-35A and 12 F-35B joint strike fighters alongside nearly 200 F-15J/DJ jets, the modernization of US aircraft in the region is a strategic move. In a potential conflict scenario with China over Taiwan, logistics prioritization will be key, emphasizing the importance of access to bases in allied territories like Japan. The ability to use US bases in Japan, like Kadena Air Force Base, is vital for deploying advanced aircraft like F-35s effectively in the region.
