US, Japan forces conduct bilateral aviation exercise Published June 20, 2023 By U.S. Forces Japan U.S. Forces Japan U.S. Forces and the Japan Self-Defense Forces conducted a bilateral aviation integration exercise on June 16, 2023, demonstrating the enduring deterrence options readily available to the U.S.-Japan Alliance.Four U.S. Marine Corps F-35 fighter aircraft, supported by a U.S. Air Force KC-135 refueler aircraft, integrated with four Japan Air Self-Defense Force F-2 fighter aircraft over the Sea of Japan, exemplifying our alliance's ability to quickly and decisively respond to threats against Japan and the region. The U.S. remains committed to peace and prosperity throughout the Indo-Pacific alongside our Japanese allies, together acting as the cornerstone of regional peace and security and presenting an ironclad defense of Japan.