Aviation News – Japan’s largest naval vessel, the JS Kaga (DDH-184), is preparing for joint flight exercises with US Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II fighter jets in June, marking another significant step in Japan’s expanding carrier aviation capabilities and strengthening US-Japan defense cooperation.
Before the drills begin, the helicopter carrier JS Kaga will make a rare port visit to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni from June 1 to 4. According to Japan’s Ministry of Defense, the visit is solely intended to transport equipment needed for the upcoming exercises. The training follows Japan’s decision to upgrade its Izumo-class helicopter destroyers to support short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) operations by the F-35B, part of Tokyo’s broader military modernization strategy.
The upcoming exercises will further validate JS Kaga’s conversion into a light aircraft carrier capable of operating fifth-generation fighter aircraft. Originally designed as a helicopter destroyer, the vessel has undergone deck and structural modifications to accommodate the heat and landing requirements of the F-35B, significantly enhancing Japan’s maritime air power and regional operational flexibility.
