Based on a recent document from Japan’s Ministry of Defense, the Self-Defense Forces have outlined their plans to deploy a second squadron of F-35B stealth fighters by 2030. These aircraft were acquired to equip the helicopter carriers JS Izumo (DDH-183) and JS Kaga (DDH-184). The announcement comes amid efforts by the defense ministry to revise training plans for future pilots of the platform, while also facing delays in the delivery timelines of the acquired aircraft.
Expanding on this, it is important to note that Japan is currently constructing a new airbase on Mageshima Island (Kagoshima Prefecture), which is expected to become the main training center for F-35B pilots. However, despite the project’s significance, recent reports indicate that its completion has been delayed by three years. Initially scheduled to be operational by 2027 under the original agreement, the new completion target has been pushed to 2029.
As a result, the Japanese Ministry of Defense has announced that Nyutabaru Air Base (on Kyushu Island) has been selected as a temporary deployment site for the new F-35B platforms for pilot training. According to these new documents, the Japan Self-Defense Forces plan to deploy up to 30 units there by the 2029 fiscal year, while currently awaiting the first batch of six aircraft. Notably, as reported in January, their arrival has been postponed until at least April, whereas they were initially expected this month.
Looking at the broader picture, both the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force will operate the B variant of the Lockheed Martin-manufactured fighter. Specifically, Tokyo plans to acquire a total of 42 F-35B fighters, aiming to have eight operational units by the 2025 fiscal year and the entire fleet in service by the 2031 fiscal year. Additionally, the Air Self-Defense Force is also set to receive 105 F-35A fighters.
For now, it is worth mentioning that Japanese personnel have already conducted various training activities to familiarize themselves with the F-35B platform, working alongside their U.S. Navy and Marine Corps allies. One of the most notable recent instances was the deployment of the amphibious assault ship USS America (LHA-6) from February 3 to 6, during which Japanese officers observed F-35B flight operations and exchanged procedures to enhance interoperability between both nations.
Additionally, looking back to December, the helicopter carrier JS Kaga returned to Kure Port after completing a three-month deployment off the U.S. coast as part of trials to operate its own F-35Bs in the future. This is a significant milestone, considering Japan is working on modifying the decks of its Izumo-class helicopter carriers to resemble those of the U.S. Navy’s Wasp– and America-class ships. These modifications are currently being carried out at Japan Marine United shipyards in Yokohama. For this purpose, the JS Kaga has undergone bow redesigning, the application of special heat-resistant coating for F-35B engine exhaust, and the installation of new lighting for nighttime operations. Further developments are expected starting in 2026.
Images used for illustrative purposes.
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