A squadron of aircraft from the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) was deployed to bases in Canada, the US, and Europe during "Operation Atlantic Eagle" from 15/9 to 1/10. This marks the first time the JASDF has sent fighter jets to bases in Canada and Europe since its establishment in 1954.

A total of 180 personnel and 8 aircraft, including 4 F-15 heavy fighter jets, two C-2 transport aircraft, and two refueling aircraft, participated in the operation. "This mission is based on the assessment that the security of the Euro-Atlantic and Asia-Pacific regions are closely linked," the JASDF stated.

Japanese F-15J fighter jets land at Goose Bay base in Canada on 17/9. Photo: JASDF

Japanese F-15J fighter jets land at Goose Bay base in Canada on 17/9. Photo: JASDF

The Japanese squadron landed at Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska, US, on 15/9, then arrived at Goose Bay base in Canada two days later. Following their deployment in the US and Canada, the Japanese forces will proceed to Coningsby base in the UK and Laage base in Germany.

Sources within the Japanese Ministry of Defense indicated that the F-15 fighter jets will not participate in training with local forces due to potential risks associated with operating in unfamiliar territory after long flights.

The deployment was announced following a meeting between the UK and Japanese defense ministers in Tokyo last month, during which both countries pledged to further strengthen their defense capabilities and security cooperation.

Japan currently operates 155 F-15J heavy fighter jets and 44 F-15DJ aircraft, a two-seat training variant with combat capabilities. The F-15J/DJ fighter jets, manufactured by Mitsubishi under US license, have some differences from the original model.

Nguyen Tien (According to AFP, AP, Defense News)