Japan has dispatched fighter jets to NATO bases in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and Germany under Operation “Atlantic Eagles.” The mission involves around 180 personnel and eight aircraft, including four F-15 fighter jets from the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, two C-2 transport planes, and aerial refueling support from one KC-767 and one KC-46A.
The deployment, running from September 14 to October 1, reflects Tokyo’s growing emphasis on cooperation with Euro-Atlantic allies. Japanese officials stress that the security of the Indo-Pacific and Europe are increasingly interconnected, especially as global conflicts and power rivalries deepen. The jets have already completed visits to the US’ Eielson Air Force Base and Canada’s Goose Bay, with upcoming stops scheduled at Germany’s Laage Air Base and the UK’s RAF Coningsby and Brize Norton.
Japan’s decision comes amid concerns about the ongoing war in Ukraine and its ripple effects across Asia. Tokyo is particularly wary of Russia’s military ties with North Korea, its use of Iranian drones, and growing Chinese support for Moscow. Japan’s historical tensions with Russia — from the Russo-Japanese War to disputes in World War II — amplify these security worries.
Beyond deployments, Japan is also participating in a joint military exercise with the United States between September 11 and 25. Notably, the drills included the debut of the Typhon missile system on Japanese soil, sparking criticism from Beijing. Taken together, these moves signal a major shift away from Japan’s postwar pacifist posture toward a more active role in global defense partnerships.
