Japan and Italy Conduct First Joint Fighter Training "Mindful of China's Military Activities"

by Yoo Jaehoon

Published 05 Aug.2023 09:39(KST)

Japan Air Self-Defense Force and Italian Air Force will conduct their first joint fighter training at Komatsu Air Base in Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, until the 10th, local media reported on the 5th.

[Image source=Yonhap News]

The training involves four Italian F-35A fighters and four Japanese F-15 fighters practicing various tactics. Both countries' aerial refueling aircraft, the KC-767, will also be deployed. The Italian Air Force sent early warning aircraft and about 160 personnel to Japan for the training.

Originally, the joint training was scheduled to begin on the 2nd, but the schedule was postponed as Typhoon No. 6 "Khanun" approached Okinawa Prefecture in southern Japan. The Italian F-35A stealth fighters arrived at Komatsu Air Base the previous afternoon.

Kyodo News explained that in relation to this training, Japan's Ministry of Defense is strengthening cooperation with other countries in consideration of China's active military activities. Since last year, the Air Self-Defense Force has conducted joint fighter training consecutively with Germany, India, and France. The Air Self-Defense Force is also scheduled to conduct joint training with the Royal Australian Air Force at Komatsu Air Base and other locations from the 23rd of this month to the 15th of next month.