Japan to deploy F-35Bs at Nyutabaru
Japan will introduce F-35B fighters the same as this USMC example. (Gordon Arthur)
F-35B fighters belonging to both the US and Japan will be stationed on Japanese soil.
The Japanese government has decided to deploy future F-35B fighters of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) at Nyutabaru Air Base in Miyazaki Prefecture, as it eyes ways to protect its southwest archipelago.
If a territorial conflict occurs in the southwest, the aircraft/helicopter carrier JS Izumo could leave from Yokosuka Naval Base, and JS Kaga from Kure Naval Base in Hiroshima. Nyutabaru is a suitable position for both these vessels to pick up F-35Bs along the way.
Furthermore, the USMC stations F-35Bs at Iwakuni Air Base. Nyutabaru and Iwakuni are geographically close, so this would promote joint training.
Two
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![Portugal signals interest in establishing A-29N final assembly line]()
Portugal signals interest in establishing A-29N final assembly line
As the launch customer for the NATO-configured variant, Portugal also took delivery of the first five A-29N aircraft from its order for 12, placed in 2024.
-
![Leonardo signs contract on Austria’s M-346 aircraft order]()
Leonardo signs contract on Austria’s M-346 aircraft order
The first of the 12 M-346 aircraft are expected to be delivered to the Austrian Air Force by 2028, according to the company.
-
![2025 UAV market review: $7.8 billion in new contracts signed as US leads spending]()
2025 UAV market review: $7.8 billion in new contracts signed as US leads spending
Qatar and Indonesia followed the US’s high spending on new uncrewed aerial vehicle contracts across 2025, while MALE and micro drones and loitering munitions were particularly popular subcategories this year.
