Italy will send fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighter jets to Japan for the first time in history

A small contingent of the Italian Air Force (Aeronautica Militare) will be deployed to Japan next week. For the first time in history, Italian F-35A Lightning II fighter jets will be sent to the Land of the Rising Sun.

Here's What We Know

Four fifth-generation F-35A 32nd Wing F-35As from Amendola and 6th Wing F-35As from Ghedi will participate with the Japan Air Self-Defence Force. They will be joined by three KC-767 aerial refuelling tankers, a C-130J transport aircraft and a G550 CAEW early warning aircraft.

The exercise will take place in Japan from 4 to 8 August 2023. The purpose of the exercise is to improve tactical skills and mutual understanding, as well as deepen cooperation in the defence sector to realise the vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific.

The Japanese and Italian air forces will be able to exchange experiences. Both countries use KC-767 air tankers and F-35A Lightning II fighter jets. Japan is also planning to get a short takeoff and vertical landing version of the F-35B.

Source: The Aviationist