European and Japanese fighter jets will engage in a series of joint training exercises over Japan scheduled for next month, as part of the larger Pacific Skies 24 initiative. These exercises aim to enhance the tactical skills of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) and strengthen defense cooperation between participating nations.
Photo: Luftwaffe
Germany, Spain, and France will all deploy military aircraft to Japan. The German Air Force will be the most prominent participant, sending eight Eurofighter jets, alongside with four A330 MRTT tankers, three A400M transports, and one A321 aircraft. Spain will contribute four Eurofighters and two A400M transports, while France dispatches a contingent of four Rafale fighters, three refueling tankers, and three transport planes.
These deployments are just one segment of Pacific Skies 24 for the European nations. Their journey begins with participation in the multinational exercise “Arctic Defender” alongside the United States. Led by Germany, this exercise focuses on honing combat skills in accordance with NATO standards.
Following “Arctic Defender,” the European partners will deploy to Japan, where the training will take place across two primary locations: Chitose Air Base on Hokkaido and Hyakuri Base near Tokyo. Germany and Spain will conduct joint training with the JASDF at Chitose Base from Jul. 16th to 20th, while France will hold its separate joint training with the JASDF at Hyakuri Base on Jul. 19th and 20th.
The planned exercises will involve “various tactical training” scenarios, designed to hone the combat skills of both Japanese and European pilots. Beyond improving military capabilities, this collaborative effort also aims to foster deeper understanding and communication between the participating air forces.
The European deployment doesn’t end in Japan. Following their joint training, five German Eurofighters will continue onward to Australia, teaming up with their French and Spanish counterparts to participate in the multinational exercise “Pitch Black.” Meanwhile, three German Eurofighters will remain in Japan for the historic “Nippon Skies” exercise with the JASDF. These three jets will then culminate their journey by deploying to Hawaii for “RIMPAC,” where they’ll train alongside the German Navy and other international partners.
The press releases highlight the commitment of all participants to a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific,” a strategic concept emphasizing the importance of maintaining freedom of navigation and a rules-based international order in the region. These joint exercises demonstrate a united front in support of this shared vision.
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