Japan is set to deploy its F-15J fighter jets to the United Kingdom for the first time, marking a historic step in defence cooperation between Tokyo and London.
The announcement was made during a joint press conference with Defence Secretary John Healey and his Japanese counterpart, underlining the strengthening partnership between the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF).
Healey confirmed that the F-15s, supported by transport aircraft, will soon be stationed in Britain, with plans for direct unit-to-unit exchanges with the RAF.
In a joint statement, the ministers said, “The Ministers acknowledged the strengthening relationship between the Royal Air Force (RAF) and Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF), as demonstrated by their joint efforts during Operation HIGHMAST and interoperability efforts in preparation for the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP). The Ministers welcomed the future deployment to Europe, including the UK, by Japanese fighter aircraft and supporting transport aircraft.”
The deployment coincides with the UK Carrier Strike Group’s visit to Japan as part of Operation Highmast, the Royal Navy’s ongoing Indo-Pacific mission. The mission saw British F-35B Lightning jets land on the Japanese helicopter carrier JS Kaga for the first time, an event hailed as a major milestone in UK–Japan military interoperability.
Both nations also reaffirmed their commitment to the Global Combat Air Programme, a joint initiative with Italy to develop a sixth-generation fighter jet. The trilateral project is aiming for its first international contract by the end of 2025, with delivery of the advanced aircraft planned for 2035.
The joint communiqué also criticised China, North Korea, and Iran for their ongoing support of Russia, signalling a united stance on global security challenges.
