Japan will provide depot-level repair for USAF F-16 and F-15 aircraft through Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and IHI Corporation to enhance defence cooperation. This follows an agreement allowing joint maintenance of USN and USAF assets in Japan.
By Shreya M
According to reports, Japan wants to provide depot-level repair for F-16 and F-15 aircraft operated by the United States Air Force (USAF).
It has been reported that Tokyo has decided to contract Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) and IHI Corporation to handle these services. This action is an attempt to "enhance bilateral defence cooperation" in East Asia.
Regarding when the deal will take effect, no information has surfaced. Both Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) F-15Js and USAF F-35s are presently able to get maintenance at MHI. Nippi Corporation, a subsidiary of Kawasaki Heavy Industries, provides coverage for U.S. Navy (USN) and U.S. Marine Corps platforms, including as the F/A-18-E/F Super Hornet and the SH-60 Seahawk series.
Based out of the combined USAF, USN, and JASDF Misawa AB on the Japanese island of Honshū, the U.S. 35th Flying Wing flies two squadrons of F-16C/DJs. Operating out of Kadena AB in Okinawa is a rotating unit of F-15C/Ds.
The Korean Air aerospace branch will be providing major repair on the aircraft, which will need flight to South Korea.
The leaders from Japan and the United States concluded the Defence Industrial Cooperation, Acquisition and Sustainment agreement in April. As a result, forward-deployed USN ships and USAF aircraft will be jointly maintained at commercial facilities in Japan.
Add comment
Comments