Japan receives first F-35B jets amid delays
The Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) has taken delivery of its first F-35B short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) fighter at Nyutabaru Air Base.
The aircraft arrived at the base earlier today following delays linked to software development. Originally scheduled for delivery by the end of the last fiscal year, the handover was postponed due to technical adjustments in the aircraft’s systems.
According to a public announcement by the JASDF, “On Aug 7, three F-35B assigned to the Temporary F-35B Squadron arrived at Nyutabaru AB. JASDF will continue further refining and strengthening Japan’s air capability through the deployment of F-35B.”
According to the Japanese Ministry of Defense, the F-35B will be operated by a newly established provisional squadron at Nyutabaru, formed in late March to support the introduction of the B-variant. The arrival of the first aircraft will allow pilot training and maintenance preparation to move forward in earnest.
Japan plans to eventually base two full F-35B squadrons at Nyutabaru. The first of these is now under formation and includes the transition of the 305th Tactical Fighter Squadron, which currently operates the F-15. The second squadron will be built as a new unit in a phased expansion.
The F-35B, developed by Lockheed Martin, is the only fifth-generation fighter in operational service worldwide with vertical landing capability, making it a key component of Japan’s broader defense modernization. The B-variant is particularly suited for operations from short runways and naval platforms, including the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s modified Izumo-class helicopter destroyers.
The Ministry has not disclosed how many aircraft will be delivered this year, but procurement is expected to continue steadily. In total, Japan has committed to acquiring 42 F-35B aircraft to complement its fleet of conventional takeoff and landing F-35As.
Japan’s acquisition of the F-35B follows a broader strategic shift in its defense planning, which now prioritizes mobility, survivability, and rapid response amid growing pressure in the Indo-Pacific. The integration of fifth-generation platforms into both the Air and Maritime Self-Defense Forces is aimed at enhancing joint operational capabilities across domains.
