The F-35s, assigned to the Vermont Air National Guard’s 134th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, joined other F-35s, F-22s and F-16s earlier this month at Kadena Air Base, Japan.
The fighters will “continually provide forward fighter capabilities in support of theater deterrence and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command objectives,” according to the 18th Wing.
Combat Proving It
This isn’t the first long-distance deployment for the “Green Mountain Boys,” who completed the National Guard’s first overseas F-35 deployment in 2022.
“We were [in Germany] flying F-35s to support NATO and flew missions along the entirety of NATO’s Eastern Flank from Estonia to Bulgaria,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. John MacRae.
‘Fight Tonight. Win Tomorrow’
Deploying more advanced, capable aircraft to Kadena exemplifies the Pentagon’s commitment to Indo-Pacific security and strengthening ties with Japan.
“Kadena’s commitment to regional deterrence is ironclad,” said Air Force Col. David Deptula.
“Rotational aircraft are a normal part of Kadena’s operations, and their presence ensures the continuation of our long-standing mission to defend Japan and maintain an open and free Indo-Pacific.”
F-35 Lighting II release
