Aviation News – U.S. Air Force C-130J Super Hercules aircraft supported a landmark multinational airborne operation in Japan, strengthening allied interoperability and regional readiness.
The exercise took place on Jan. 17 at the Ojojihara Training Area in Miyagi Prefecture and marked the first time the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force hosted a multinational airborne exercise on Japanese soil. The operation involved U.S. and Japanese air and ground forces and underscored growing cooperation amid evolving Indo-Pacific security dynamics.
The training built on the momentum of New Year Jump Indo-Pacific 2026, which included forces from 14 nations. While earlier events at the JGSDF’s Narashino Training Area focused on ceremonial demonstration, the Ojojihara phase emphasized tactical execution, combat realism, and operational coordination between allied airborne units.
Operating from Yokota Air Base, four U.S. Air Force C-130J aircraft from the 36th Airlift Squadron inserted around 130 paratroopers from the U.S. Army’s 11th Airborne Division. The mission was closely coordinated with the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, which employed a Kawasaki C-2 and two C-130H aircraft to deliver paratroopers from the JGSDF 1st Airborne Brigade, allowing forces to bolt together seamlessly in a complex joint airlift scenario.
“This exercise demonstrates our shared commitment to strengthening airborne capabilities and interoperability,” a U.S. Air Force spokesperson said. “Training side by side in realistic conditions ensures our forces can operate effectively together when it matters most.”
Looking ahead, the successful operation is expected to encourage more complex and frequent multinational airborne exercises hosted by Japan. Defense planners see these events as a key step toward enhancing rapid deployment, joint response, and regional deterrence across the Indo-Pacific.
Overall, the Ojojihara airborne operation highlighted a deepening level of trust and coordination between U.S. and Japanese forces. As multinational training evolves from demonstration to operational focus, allied airborne units are better positioned to respond quickly and effectively to future contingencies.
Photo Jeroen Vogelaar