Summary
The United States is strengthening its air power at Kadena Air Base in Japan by replacing older fighter jets with newer models, amid rising military tensions in the western Pacific. This includes a rotating presence of advanced jets to maintain a strong defense posture near Taiwan and Japan.
Key Facts
- The U.S. reinforced Kadena Air Base in Japan with new fighter jets starting in fall 2022.
- Kadena Base is strategically important because it is close to Taiwan, which is about 370 miles away.
- The base hosted jets from various U.S. locations, including Alaska, Hawaii, and Germany.
- The older F-15C/D jets began leaving Kadena in December 2022.
- By July 2024, the Pentagon announced plans to update Kadena's fleet with 36 new F-15EX jets.
- F-15EX jets can carry 12 missiles, more than older F-15 models.
- This move comes amid increased military activities by China near Japan and Taiwan.
- Kadena aims to permanently host F-15EX jets by spring 2026.
