Japan has deployed fighter jets to NATO bases in the US, Canada, the UK, and Germany under Operation Atlantic Eagles.
The mission involves 180 personnel and eight aircraft: four F-15 fighter jets, two C-2 transport planes, plus one KC-767 and one KC-46A aerial refueling/transport aircraft.
Running from September 14 to October 1, the deployment aims to strengthen defense cooperation, reflecting Tokyo’s view that Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific security are closely linked. Stops include the US’ Eielson Air Force Base, Canada’s Goose Bay, Germany’s Laage Air Base, and the UK’s RAF Coningsby and Brize Norton.
Japan’s concerns are shaped by the Ukraine war’s impact on Asia, with Russia drawing support from North Korea, Iran, and China, as well as by its longstanding tensions with Moscow.
The move highlights Japan’s shift from a postwar pacifist stance, following its opening of a mission to NATO and active participation in joint exercises.
Alongside the NATO deployment, Japanese troops are also engaged in joint drills with US forces (Sept 11–25), which featured the first Japanese unveiling of the Typhon missile system, prompting criticism from Beijing.
