U.S. Air Force F-35A Fighters in Japan: A Strategic Deterrent in the Indo-Pacific

The United States Air Force (USAF) has deployed F-35A Lightning II stealth fighters as part of its rotational presence in Japan, specifically at Kadena Air Base. This deployment is led by the 356th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron (EFS) from Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska. The primary mission of the squadron is to ensure air superiority and maintain operational readiness in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in light of increasing military activities from China.

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The 356th EFS regularly conducts training exercises with the U.S. Marine Corps' F-35B Lightning II aircraft and participates in large-scale operations like Keen Sword, which focuses on enhancing interoperability between U.S. forces and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force. Major John Toner, the squadron's deployed director of operations, emphasized the importance of these exercises, stating, “Every training event and every sortie strengthens our ability to deliver combat airpower and ensure stability across the Pacific.” The integration of E-3 Sentry aircraft from the 961st Airborne Air Control Squadron further enhances command and control capabilities across multiple domains.

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The deployment of F-35A aircraft occurs amid heightened military activity in the Indo-Pacific, particularly from China. On December 30, 2025, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) intensified its Justice Mission 2025 exercise, which involved coordinated operations across various military branches, including live-fire exercises and missile launches. This context underscores the strategic necessity of the U.S. air presence in the region.

U.S. Air Force F-35A stealth fighters deployed in Japan form the first line of deterrence in the Indo-Pacific

The F-35A's advanced capabilities, including its stealth profile and electronic warfare systems, are designed to operate effectively in contested environments. Toner remarked, “The F-35 gives us an advantage that extends beyond the aircraft itself. It is a force multiplier that links our forces, amplifying deterrence across the entire theater of operations.” The continuous training and operational readiness of the 356th EFS are crucial for maintaining a credible deterrent against potential adversaries.

U.S. Air Force F-35A stealth fighters deployed in Japan form the first line of deterrence in the Indo-Pacific

The USAF has highlighted the importance of its presence in Japan as part of a broader strategy to sustain deterrence and enhance interoperability with allies. The 18th Wing at Kadena Air Base plays a vital role in supporting the infrastructure necessary for these rotational units to operate effectively.

U.S. Air Force F-35A stealth fighters deployed in Japan form the first line of deterrence in the Indo-Pacific

While the deployment is framed as a necessary deterrent, some critics argue that the increased military presence may escalate tensions in the region. The growing military capabilities of China, particularly in the Taiwan Strait, raise concerns about potential conflicts arising from such deployments.

U.S. Air Force F-35A stealth fighters deployed in Japan form the first line of deterrence in the Indo-Pacific

The U.S. is expected to continue reinforcing its military capabilities in the Indo-Pacific, with ongoing training exercises and potential expansions of its logistical support initiatives. The strategic landscape in the region remains dynamic, necessitating a sustained U.S. military presence to address evolving threats.

U.S. Air Force F-35A stealth fighters deployed in Japan form the first line of deterrence in the Indo-Pacific

• “Our mission is to ensure air dominance whenever and wherever we are called,” — Major John Toner, 356th EFS

U.S. Air Force F-35A stealth fighters deployed in Japan form the first line of deterrence in the Indo-Pacific

• “We’re on the same page and operating at a common level,” — Captain Ryan Beveridge, 356th EFS

U.S. Air Force F-35A stealth fighters deployed in Japan form the first line of deterrence in the Indo-Pacific

• “Deterrence at altitude is built on preparation,” — Captain Ryan Beveridge, 356th EFS

Alaska F-35As deliver deterrence at altitude

This deployment of F-35A fighters in Japan exemplifies the USAF's commitment to maintaining stability and deterrence in the Indo-Pacific amidst rising regional tensions.

U.S. Air Force F-35A stealth fighters deployed in Japan form the first line of deterrence in the Indo-Pacific