The Kaeru deploy to Australia.
Japan Air Self Defence Force deploy F-35A Lightning
to Australia for the first time.
Article: Jaryd Stock
The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) has welcomed a visit by Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) F-35A Lightning II aircraft and personnel to Australia, marking the first time Japan has deployed these aircraft overseas.
Two F-35As and a contingent of 55 personnel from the 301st Tactical Fighter Squadron based at Misawa Air Base were being hosted at RAAF Base Tindal in the Northern Territory from 26 to 29 August after making the 6,400-kilometre trip to Australia’s top end supported by Kawasaki C-2, C-130 and KC-767 aircraft.
The 301st TFS are marked with the Kaeru (Frog) on its vertical stabilisers and was a welcomed visitor to Australia by RAAF and Australian Government officials.
Vice Minister of Defense for International Affairs Serizawa Kiyoshi and Ambassador for Japan, Suzuki Kazuhiro, visited JASDF personnel at RAAF Base Tindal as guests of Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Robert Chipman.
The visit by the F-35As follows the entry into force of the Australia–Japan Reciprocal Access Agreement, which facilitates deeper and more sophisticated practical cooperation between the Australian Defence Force and the Japan Self-Defense Forces.
“Australia is honoured to be chosen as the destination for Japan’s first international deployment of its F-35A Lightnings, stated Secretary of the Department of Defence, Greg Moriarty
“This is a significant milestone in the relationship between our two countries, and is the first activity to be held under the Reciprocal Access Agreement.
F-15J Eagle 82-8897 from the 306TFS wears Bushido Guardian 23 scheme to commemorate exercise with RAAF, Image- JASDF
“In September, we will reciprocate this visit with six RAAF F-35 Lightning aircraft from No. 75 Squadron deploying to Komatsu Air Base,Japan for Exercise Bushido Guardian 2023 training along side 306th Tactical Fighter Squadron.
“Our special strategic partnership with Japan is critical to supporting an open, secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific.”
Chief of Air Force, Air Marshal Rob Chipman said “This visit to Australia will build closer working-level relationships between our respective air forces, and enhance our mutual ability to cooperate in the Indo-Pacific region.
“It’s our pleasure to host the Japan Air Self-Defense Force for this visit, and we look forward to seeing them return for future exercises here in Australia.
“Developing our mutual understanding, especially in how we each operate the F-35A, is essential to how Australia and Japan contribute to the collective security of the Indo-Pacific.”
Jaryd picked up a camera at a young age and has never looked back. He now combines photography and writing to highlight "Downunder" aviation; especially U.S. DoD units. Jaryd uses Nikon cameras and lenses.