The US is modernising its army in the Pacific with the latest F-35 fighters to deter China

The US Air Force in the Pacific will soon be significantly modernised as the Pentagon has announced that it will replace aircraft at some bases in Japan with dozens of F-35 fighters.

Here's What We Know

The move comes as the US considers various options amid a potential conflict with China, which may have the capacity to destroy US airfields in the region. The Ministry of Defence noted that the effort to modernise the aircraft will take several years.

"This is more than $10 billion in investments in capabilities to strengthen the US-Japan alliance, enhance regional deterrence, and promote peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region," the statement explained.

As part of the plan, the Air Force will replace nearly 50 F-15Cs and F-15Ds at Kadena Air Base with 36 F-15EX Eagle II strike fighters. And at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, the number of F-35B jets capable of taking off from short runways and amphibious assault ships will be "modified" to further support the US modernisation plan.

In addition, the US Air Force will replace 36 old F-16 Fighting Falcon multi-role fighters with 48 F-35A stealth fighters at Misawa Air Base.

Source: Business Insider