A U.S. F-35B Lightning II aircraft made its first-ever landing aboard Japan’s Izumo-class destroyer JS Kaga (DDH-184) on October 20.
The historic landing occurred off the southern coast of California as part of sea trials designed to test the ship’s ability to operate fixed-wing aircraft.
The F-35B, a short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) variant of the 5th-generation fighter jet, touched down on the Kaga’s flight deck at approximately 3:15 p.m., piloted by a test pilot from Air Test and Evaluation Squadron Two Three (VX-23), based at Naval Air Station Patuxent River in Maryland. This event signals the start of developmental tests aimed at ensuring the seamless operation of the F-35B aboard Japan’s largest warship, which underwent extensive modifications to accommodate such aircraft.
The JS Kaga’s recent upgrades include a heat-resistant flight deck to withstand the intense heat from the F-35B’s vectored-thrust engines, reshaping of the flight deck’s bow, and additional lighting for nighttime operations. These modifications will enable Japan to conduct advanced naval aviation operations and work in closer coordination with U.S. forces.
“This test is essential for strengthening Japan’s defense capabilities and is of utmost importance,” said Capt. Shusaku Takeuchi, commanding officer of the JS Kaga. “It not only enhances the capabilities of the Maritime Self-Defense Force but also improves interoperability between Japan and the U.S., strengthening deterrence and response capabilities in the Japan-U.S. alliance.”
A test team from the F-35 Pax River Integrated Test Force (Pax ITF), which includes pilots, maintainers, flight test engineers, and flight deck personnel, joined the crew aboard the JS Kaga for the sea trials. The trials are expected to last approximately three weeks and will assess the operational compatibility of the F-35B with the Kaga.
“We are proud to be part of this joint effort to test the compatibility of F-35B aboard JS Kaga,” said Seth Dion, Pax ITF team lead. “Our team has prepared meticulously for this mission, and we are committed to working closely with our allies to achieve our shared goals.”
The integration of the F-35B aboard the Kaga marks a new era for Japan’s naval capabilities, allowing it to project power and enhance regional stability through strengthened cooperation with U.S. forces.