USFJ recently confirmed via social media that the F-16 fighter jets at Misawa Air Base, Japan, have begun adjusting their equipment configuration this month, and will be replaced by F-35A fighters starting in 2026. USFJ stated that the F-16s of the 35th Fighter Wing stationed at Misawa, Aomori Prefecture, have long served as the core of air defense operations for US forces in Japan. However, they are now unable to cope with future threats. Therefore, the US Department of Defense has already formulated a plan in 2024 to accelerate the replacement of aircraft, investing 10 billion dollars to gradually replace the F-16s at Misawa Air Base with the most advanced F-35A.
Currently, the 13th Fighter Squadron under the 35th Fighter Wing has completed the administrative procedures for the first batch of F-16 adjustments and has started returning to the United States; meanwhile, Misawa Air Base is actively preparing the relevant operations for protection and maintenance facilities to prepare for receiving the F-35A from next year. Starting next year, the aircraft stationed at Misawa Air Base by US forces in Japan and the Japanese Air Self-Defense Force will be of the same type.
Previously reported, the 35th Fighter Wing of the US Air Force had a strength of 36 F-16 aircraft, but in the future, the wing will be equipped with 48 F-35A aircraft, which means enhancing its air superiority, ground attack and other combat capabilities through upgrades and expansion.
If five years ago, the replacement of F-35A by US forces in Japan could still cause some concern, but after this September 3rd military parade, the replacement of F-35A by US forces in Japan and the Japanese Air Self-Defense Force, I feel that this replacement of F-35A is like "selling one's head with a sign on it."
Original article: www.toutiao.com/article/1842946728745996/
Statement: The article represents the personal views of the author.