First US Advanced Fighters Arrive for Permanent Duty at Air Base in Japan

First US advanced fighters arrive for permanent duty at air base in Japan

Stealth fighters arrived at Misawa Air Base, the first replacements the Air Force pledged for the F-16 Fighting Falcons stationed there.

Misawa's 13th Fighter Squadron Receives First F-35s

Misawa Air Base has received the U.S. Air Force’s first F-35A Lightning II fighters to be permanently based in Japan, beginning the transition from the F-16 to the fifth-gen aircraft. Misawa Air Base, home of the U.S. Air Force’s 35th Fighter Wing, has received its first four F-35A Lightning II fighter jets. The aircraft landed there on Mar. 28, 2026, marking the arrival of the service’s first F-35s to be permanently based there as the 35th FW t…

U.S. Air Force deploys F-35A Lightning II jets to Misawa

The arrival supports Department of the Air Force modernization efforts and underscores U.S. defense commitments in the Indo-Pacific region. Officials said the move reflects a sustained focus on strengthening deterrence and maintaining regional stability alongside allies. “Bringing the F-35 to Misawa underscores our long-standing commitment to Japan and the region,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Paul Davidson, 35th Fighter Wing commander. “It strength…

F-35A Lightning IIs arrive at Misawa Air Base

F-35A Lightning II aircraft assigned to the 13th Fighter Squadron arrived at Misawa Air Base, Japan, March 28, 2026, marking the beginning of the squadron’s transition to fifth-generation airpower and the permanent stationing of the Joint Force’s most advanced tactical aircraft in Northern Japan.