In a significant move, Japan has deployed fighter aircraft and support units to NATO bases across the US, Canada, Germany, and the UK under Operation “Atlantic Eagles.” The mission brings together about 180 Japanese personnel alongside eight aircraft: four F-15 fighter jets, two C-2 transport planes, a KC-767, and a KC-46A for aerial refueling and logistics support.
The operation, which runs from September 14 to October 1, highlights Japan’s deepening defense engagement with NATO partners. Officials in Tokyo emphasized that the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific security environments are increasingly linked. So far, the Japanese units have completed deployments to Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska and Goose Bay in Canada. Their European itinerary will include Germany’s Laage Air Base as well as the UK’s RAF Coningsby and Brize Norton.
This activity underscores Japan’s growing concern about the Ukraine conflict and its broader impact on Asia. Tokyo sees Russia’s alignment with North Korean soldiers, Iranian drones, and Chinese backing as part of a troubling pattern. Japan’s long and complicated history with Moscow further intensifies its concerns about regional instability.
Alongside this NATO-oriented mission, Japanese forces are also training with the US military in exercises running from September 11 to 25. These drills have included the first public use of the Typhon missile system in Japan — a development that has drawn strong criticism from Beijing. The combined efforts reflect Japan’s steady departure from a pacifist stance toward a more assertive security role in both regional and global affairs.
