BREAKING: United States F-35B stealth fighter jets have launched from the Japanese aircraft carrier JS Kaga during a significant military exercise conducted on October 19, 2023, in the Philippine Sea. This development underscores the ongoing collaboration between the U.S. and Japan as both nations bolster their defenses in response to escalating military threats from China.
Photos released by the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing reveal at least four F-35B jets conducting operations from the Kaga, a vessel converted from a helicopter carrier to support advanced fighter jets. The exercise, known as ANNUALEX, involved multiple allied nations including Australia, Canada, France, and New Zealand, aiming to enhance combat readiness and deter regional instability.
The urgency of this military exercise is amplified by the strategic importance of Japan’s southwestern islands, which face vulnerabilities should China act against Taiwan. Japan’s defense posture is increasingly critical, with the Kaga positioned to provide air support where few airfields exist.
The exercise featured not only the F-35B jets but also a U.S. Navy CMV-22B tiltrotor aircraft, showcasing the interoperability of U.S. and Japanese forces. The 1st Marine Aircraft Wing stated, “The exercise supports both forces’ mission to strengthen interoperability, enhance joint maritime strike capabilities, and maintain readiness for a free and open Indo-Pacific.”
This deployment marks a pivotal moment in the U.S. military’s strategy in the western Pacific, reinforcing its commitment to partner nations and demonstrating advanced capabilities against potential aggression. The Kaga’s operations with F-35B jets are significant, as these aircraft are typically deployed with the amphibious assault ship USS Tripoli, which recently arrived in Sasebo, Japan, after its transfer from California.
In a statement, the U.S. 7th Fleet emphasized, “Held every two years, ANNUALEX provides an opportunity to refine and build upon existing combat interoperability, enhancing readiness across all platforms.” This exercise serves as a clear message to regional adversaries about the strength of U.S.-Japan alliances.
The F-35 jets, equipped with advanced stealth technology and integrated sensors, enable real-time data sharing across platforms, enhancing situational awareness in the battlespace. As military tensions persist, the successful launch of these jets from the Kaga symbolizes a commitment to collective security in the region.
Looking ahead, it remains uncertain when Japan will fully operationalize its F-35B jets aboard the Kaga for future missions. However, the partnership between U.S. forces and Japanese capabilities could significantly enhance operational flexibility in the region.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.