Defense Department Announces Modernization Plan for Japan-Based Tactical Aircraft > U.S. Indo-Pacific Command > 2015

The Department of Defense (DoD), in close coordination with the Japanese government, today announced a plan to modernize the deployment of U.S. tactical aircraft at multiple military installations in Japan.

The modernization plan, which will be implemented over the next several years, includes more than $10 billion in capabilities investments to enhance the U.S.-Japan alliance, strengthen regional deterrence, and consolidate peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

The U.S. Air Force will bolster its presence at Kadena Air Base by deploying 36 F-15EX aircraft to replace 48 F-15C/D aircraft as part of a divestment and modernization plan. The Joint Force will continue to maintain a rotational presence of 4th and 5th generation tactical aircraft at Kadena Air Base throughout this transition.

The U.S. Air Force will also increase its presence at Misawa Air Base from 36 F-16s to 48 F-35As, increasing the capacity and capability of tactical aircraft.

At Marine Corps Air Station (MCAS) Iwakuni, the U.S. Marine Corps will modify the number of F-35B aircraft to support the implementation of the Service’s Force Design Modernization. The U.S. Marine Corps will continue to maintain an enduring, rotational air presence at Iwakuni Air Base to ensure the capabilities needed to support the defense of Japan.

The Department’s plan to station the Joint Force’s most advanced tactical aircraft in Japan demonstrates the United States’ unwavering commitment to the defense of Japan and the two countries’ shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.