Japan is deploying eight aircraft, including four F-15 fighter jets, to bases in the United States, Canada, and Europe in an unprecedented mission to support NATO. This operation is referred to as “Atlantic Eagles.”

This mission reportedly marks the first time in history that Japanese warplanes have been deployed to Canada and Europe. The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) is involved in this mission, which includes a total of 180 personnel drawn from various air bases in Japan. These bases include the 2nd Air Wing based at Chitose, the 1st Tactical Airlift Wing based at Komaki, the 2nd Tactical Airlift Group from Iruma, and the 3rd Tactical Airlift Wing from Miho. Accompanying the four F-15s are two tanker aircraft and two refueling tankers.

The JASDF stated that this mission is “based on the recognition that the security of the Euro-Atlantic and of the Indo-Pacific are interconnected.” The aircraft have landed at Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska, with subsequent stops planned at CFB Goose Bay in Canada, RAF Coningsby in England, and Laage Air Base in Germany.

About Zita Ballinger Fletcher: Previously, Zita Ballinger Fletcher served as the editor of “Military History Quarterly” and “Vietnam” magazines. She was also the historian for the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and holds an M.A. with distinction in military history.