JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii (AFNS) —
Japan Air Self-Defense Force (Koku-Jieitai) Airmen spent three days coaching alongside 15th Wing Airmen, strengthening partnerships and familiarizing each forces with the Kawasaki C-2 and C-17 Globemaster III.
This was the first bilateral coaching exercise between the 535th Airlift Squadron and the JASDF (K-J) 403rd Tactical Airlift Squadron with the principle goal of flying in a formation and finishing an airdrop mission.
“This is the first exercise of a C-17 and JASDF (K-J) C-2 aircraft,” mentioned JASDF Lt. Col. Motofumi Suzuki, 403rd Tactical Airlift Squadron commander. “It is symbolic for us to fly together in the same sky at the same time, as it not only strengthens our alliance but also improves interoperability.”
The two squadrons flew orientation sorties to familiarize aircrews from every pressure on the capabilities of each plane and the totally different processes of every crew.
“It was an honor to be able to lead the formation, put the training plan together, and figure out the main objectives of what we both wanted to accomplish,” mentioned U.S Air Force Capt. Carol Champion, 535th AS teacher pilot. “Having good partners that we know we can depend on and work together with, whether it’s for a humanitarian crisis or any other challenges we face, allows us to handle future situations better.”
The joint coaching elevated operational ideas and capabilities and superior communication, transparency, and shared values and pursuits, strengthening partnerships for future conditions.
“Robust bilateral relationships like that of the U.S. and Japan are essential to cultivating our ability to support each other across the Indo-Pacific,” mentioned U.S. Air Force Col. Keith Young, 15th Wing vice commander. “This has been a great opportunity for the 15th Wing team to share our capabilities, strengthen partnerships and advance joint interoperability.”
