JAPAN AIR SELF-DEFENSE FORCETSUIKI AIR BASE, Japan -- U.S. Airmen and F-15C Eagles assigned to Kadena Air Base, Japan, will participate in an Aviation Training Relocation, otherwise known as “ATR,” event hosted by the Japanese Air Self-Defense Force 8th Air Wing at Tsuiki Air Base, Japan, November 10-18, 2022.
ATR is a result of the May 2006 United States-Japan roadmap for realignment implementation, a bilateral program aimed at increasing operational readiness and improving interoperability. During this training event, U.S. and Japanese forces will plan and conduct bilateral flying operations within bilaterally approved airspace regularly used by the JASDF.
“A strong U.S.-Japan alliance serves as a basis to deter conflicts and keep stability in the region,” said JASDF Lt. Col. Tomonori Okubo, 6th Fighter Squadron commander. “We are proud to contribute to the peace in the region by signaling a strong U.S.-Japan alliance through this bilateral training.”
Members participating in the ATR are from various units under the 18th Wing and will be given the opportunity to practice deployed operations and perform bilateral training in a joint environment alongside the JASDF 8th Air Wing.
“We must work as a team and communicate effectively to prevail in the skies above,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Craig Van Beusekom, 67th Fighter Squadron commander, during the ATR’s initial press conference. “About 190 Kadena-based Airmen from Okinawa are participating in this training. On behalf of them, I would like to thank you for hosting us.”