The United States is preparing Misawa Air Base in Japan for fifth-generation fighter operations as part of its strategy to modernize air power in the Western Pacific and enhance regional deterrence. According to Newsweek reporter Ryan Chan, under the modernization plan announced by the Pentagon in July 2024, 36 aging F-16 aircraft currently stationed at the base will be replaced by 48 F-35A Lightning II jets.
Infrastructure and Logistics Preparations Begin
Based on data shared by the U.S. Air Force, personnel of the 35th Fighter Wing stationed at Misawa Air Base have begun the inventory process for technical equipment and logistical materials that will support F-35A operations. Preparations, which accelerated last month, continue with the installation of support systems that will ensure the maintenance and operational sustainability of the aircraft.
A statement from the U.S. Air Force emphasized that this logistical deployment will directly enhance the wing’s ability to generate and sustain air power in the Indo-Pacific region.
“First Island Chain” Strategy
This transformation at Misawa is considered part of the U.S. strategy to strengthen its military presence along the “First Island Chain.” The current regional air power distribution is as follows:
Misawa Air Base: With the permanent deployment of 48 F-35As, it will become one of the most critical stealth operation hubs in the region.
Iwakuni Marine Corps Air Station: Hosts F-35B (short takeoff/vertical landing) and F-35C (naval variant) aircraft.
Kadena Air Base: Rotationally hosts F-35A aircraft.
Regional Deterrence and Operational Efficiency
Strategically located in northern Japan, Misawa Air Base also hosts two F-35A squadrons of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF). The base stands out for its ability to operate under harsh winter conditions. Exercises conducted in early January reportedly confirmed that existing F-16 units could take off and maintain combat readiness under extreme cold and snowfall.
High-Level Defense Engagements
In January 2026, U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth and Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi met in Washington and agreed on modernizing alliance command-and-control systems and cooperating on the defense industry. Secretary Hegseth welcomed Japan’s decision to increase its defense budget, stating that investments made jointly with allies guarantee regional peace.
The exact arrival date of the first F-35A group at Misawa has not yet been announced, but the modernization process is proceeding according to schedule.
Source: C4Defence / Newsweek
