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The Royal Australian Air Force has joined the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) and US Air Force for the first trilateral iteration of Exercise Bushido Guardian in Japan.
Operating from Misawa Air Base, the exercise will see eight RAAF F-35A Lightning II fighter jets from No. 3 Squadron train alongside JASDF and USAF aircraft. Traditionally a bilateral exercise between Australia and Japan, the 2025 program is the first time the US has participated.
“No. 3 Squadron is one of four squadrons operating the F-35A Lightning II, and we are honoured to participate in Exercise Bushido Guardian, hosted at Misawa Air Force Base in Japan,” said Wing Commander Mark Biele, Commanding Officer No. 3 Squadron.
“Interoperability is key. We are excited to take to the sky with aircraft from Japan and the United States, sharing experience and strengthening aviator to aviator relationships between our nations.
“Trilateral defence cooperation between Australia, Japan and the United States is an important pillar of regional security that upholds a stable, secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.”
Around 130 RAAF personnel will be participating in the exercise, alongside 350 USAF and 300 JASDF service members. Twenty-five aircraft will complete 25 missions from Misawa Air Base, focusing on the critical integration of fifth-generation fighter capabilities.
“The exercise ensures that aircrews, maintainers and support personnel are prepared to operate seamlessly together in a complex, multi-domain environment,” the USAF said in a statement.
“By leveraging the latest technologies during realistic combat training scenarios, military members are furthering [Pacific Air Forces’] objectives in the Indo-Pacific, ensuring rapid responses to any challenges alongside allies and partners.”
US Air Force Colonel Paul Davidson, 35th Fighter Wing commander, said the first trilateral Bushido Guardian is a “pivotal moment”.
“This trilateral exercise is more than just flying sorties; it’s about forging stronger bonds, sharing expertise and refining our combined tactics.
“By working together, we enhance interoperability, improve our collective readiness and demonstrate our unwavering commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific.”
Exercise Bushido Guardian 25 commenced on 29 September and will conclude on 10 October.
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