Japan fields F-35B fighters at Nyutabaru Air Base

Japan’s Ministry of Defense on Feb. 7 held a ceremony marking the deployment of F-35B fighter aircraft at Nyutabaru Air Base, according to a statement released by the ministry.

The event formally marked the start of F-35B basing at Nyutabaru, a key installation of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force. The ministry said the ceremony was conducted to commemorate the introduction of the short takeoff and vertical landing variant of the F-35 to the base.

The Ministry of Defense said the F-35B is a stealth fighter capable of short takeoff and vertical landing operations, allowing it to operate from shorter runways compared with conventional fighter aircraft. The platform adds a new operational option to Japan’s air defense forces.

The ceremony was attended by Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Defense Yoshida, who delivered remarks to service members and inspected the F-35B aircraft. According to the ministry, Yoshida addressed personnel assigned to the unit and observed the aircraft during the event.

Nyutabaru Air Base is located in southern Japan and has long hosted fighter units tasked with regional air defense missions. The basing of the F-35B introduces a new capability at the installation, expanding the range of aircraft operations that can be conducted from the base.

The F-35B is the short takeoff and vertical landing variant of the F-35 Lightning II family. Unlike the conventional takeoff F-35A already operated by the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, the F-35B is designed to operate from shorter or less developed airfields, offering increased flexibility in aircraft deployment.

Japan has gradually expanded its F-35 fleet in recent years, introducing multiple variants to support different operational requirements. The F-35B plays a role in providing additional basing options and improving operational resilience for air missions.