The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) has successfully completed the first fighter aircraft deployment to Europe in its 71-year history, arriving at RAF Coningsby as part of the "Atlantic Eagles" mission. This landmark achievement strengthens defence cooperation between the United Kingdom and Japan whilst demonstrating the interconnected nature of global security.
Two F-15 fighter aircraft, supported by KC-767, KC-46A, and C-2 transport aircraft, along with approximately 180 personnel, are participating in the mission running from 14 September to 1 October 2025. The deployment includes visits to allied air bases in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and Germany.
"This marks our first fighter deployment to Europe in the 71-year history of the Koku-Jieitai (Japan Air Self-Defense Force). We have named this mission 'Atlantic Eagles,' symbolising our F-15 jets spreading their wings across the Atlantic."
General Morita Takehiro
Chief of Staff of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force.
"The arrival of your fighters on UK soil is not only a milestone for the Koku-Jieitai, but also a powerful symbol of how far our partnership has advanced. This is not simply a visit, it is a demonstration of operational trust and shared purpose."
Air and Space Commander Air Marshal Allan
The mission builds upon recent defence cooperation initiatives, including the UK's Carrier Strike Group deployment to the Indo-Pacific this summer and joint training exercises between RAF and JASDF aircraft near Japan.
Last month, the defence ministers of both nations released their first joint statement, acknowledging strengthening relations and defence cooperation reaching new dimensions.
Both military leaders emphasised that the security of the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions are interconnected, with the deployment serving to deepen mutual understanding and enhance defence cooperation.
The Atlantic Eagles mission represents the beginning of expanded collaboration between the Royal Air Force and Japan Air Self-Defense Force, as both nations work together to maintain peace and stability in support of shared values and global security.
