Japan has launched its first long‑range fighter jet deployment under the Atlantic Eagles mission, sending F‑15 aircraft across the Pacific and Atlantic to strengthen international defense ties. As a result, the move signals Tokyo’s desire to demonstrate global reach and reinforce alliances spanning both the Indo‑Pacific and Euro‑Atlantic regions.
Starting around September 14, four F‑15 JASDF (Japan Air Self‑Defense Force) jets departed from Chitose Air Base in Hokkaido. From there, they flew via Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska and Goose Bay in Canada before arriving at RAF Coningsby in the United Kingdom and later Germany’s Laage Air Base. Overall, the entire mission runs through October 1 and involves some 180 personnel, along with tanker and transport support aircraft.
General Morita Takehiro, Chief of Staff of the JASDF, described the deployment as “our first fighter deployment to Europe in 71 years.” Moreover, he said the mission name, Atlantic Eagles, reflects Japan’s intent to bridge distant theaters of security. At the same time, defense officials emphasize the operation underscores their doctrine that the Euro‑Atlantic and Indo‑Pacific regions share interconnected security.
Japan’s Defense Minister Gen Nakatani framed the deployment as proof of shared recognition that modern threats are global in nature. Therefore, he argued that sending advanced fighters abroad signals Tokyo’s willingness to take initiative in alliance interoperability.
Importantly, this deployment marks a clear shift in Japan’s defense posture. Traditionally, Japan confined its Self‑Defense Forces to regional operations. Now, by deploying frontline fighters to distant bases, Tokyo signals it wants to play a larger strategic role among democracies.
Support elements included tanker aircraft (KC‑767 and KC‑46A types) and Kawasaki C‑2 transports carrying logistics and personnel. Consequently, that configuration allowed the fighters to traverse vast distances with in‑flight refueling and staged stops. Clearly, the logistical complexity reveals Japan’s growing capacity to project power far from its shores.
At RAF Coningsby, Japanese F‑15s landed alongside Royal Air Force Typhoons. As expected, their presence prompted joint procedural exchanges and demonstrations of operational coordination. Notably, the visit is not positioned as combat operations—but as goodwill, familiarization, and interoperability training. Some critics raise caution about the political optics of sending combat jets overseas. For example, they worry that Japan’s constitution, which limits its role in foreign conflict, might be tested. In addition, others see risks of regional backlash from neighbors suspicious of expanded Japanese military visibility.
However, experts mostly view Atlantic Eagles as a measured next step in alliance building. One defense analyst commented that the mission is less about force projection and more about signaling resolve. Furthermore, another noted that as security pressures rise—from China, Russia, and in contested sea lanes—Japan must deepen defense ties beyond its region.
Looking ahead, Japan may conduct more regular rotations of JASDF aircraft with allied air forces. In the same vein, it could integrate its F‑35 fleet in similar missions and expand interoperability with NATO partners. Domestically, Tokyo will likely refine rules of engagement and legal frameworks to support overseas deployments.
If Japan sustains such deployments, it might also influence the trajectory of its defense industry. Specifically, technology co‑development projects, such as the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) with the UK and Italy, could gain stronger momentum.
Ultimately, Atlantic Eagles marks a milestone in Japan’s postwar military evolution. It clearly anchors Tokyo’s intention to bridge distinct strategic theaters and underscores its readiness to operate in concert with global allies. In the end, the real measure of success will lie in follow‑on missions, legal adjustments, and sustained alliance engagement.
