Historic air drills unite German and Japanese forces against threats
The Japan Times reports that Germany and Japan have concluded their first-ever joint air force exercises using Eurofighter and F-15 fighters. These maneuvers took place in response to Russia and China's increasing activity in the Indo-Pacific region, which is a cause for concern for both countries.
11:11 AM EDT, July 26, 2024
These historic exercises, named Nippon Skies, began on Monday, July 22, 2024, and lasted the entire week. They were conducted in the airspace around the Air Self-Defense Force (ASDF) Chitose base, located on the Japanese island of Hokkaido.
Joint fighter exercises
Various types of aircraft participated in the maneuvers. From the German side, there were three Eurofighter fighters, while Japan was represented by four ASDF F-15 jets.
The Ministry of Defense in Tokyo declared that the primary goals of these exercises were "to enhance tactical skills" and "to promote mutual understanding" between the air forces of both countries. Additionally, training with NATO forces aims to contribute to maintaining a "free and open Indo-Pacific."
The Chief of the German Air Force, Gen. Ingo Gerhartz, emphasized the importance of these exercises, noting that they signal that the security of Europe is "inextricably linked" with the security of the Indo-Pacific region. This position aligns with recent statements by authorities of both nations, which highlight the interconnections and dependencies between these regions.
Eurofighter and F-15
The Eurofighter Typhoon is a multi-role aircraft that is a significant part of the air fleet of European NATO members. This fighter is powered by two powerful Eurojet EJ200 engines, each generating 20,000 pounds of thrust, allowing it to reach a maximum speed of 1,535 mph.
There are nine pylons available for mounting air-to-air missiles, cruise missiles, or guided bombs. Additionally, it features an onboard BK-27 cannon with a 1.06-inch caliber.
The Japanese Mitsubishi F-15J/DJ Eagle are air superiority fighters based on the McDonnell Douglas F-15C/D Eagle design. These aircraft utilize two Pratt & Whitney F100-220 engines, allowing them to reach a speed of 1,650 mph.
The fighter offers 10 hardpoints where air-to-air, air-to-ground missiles, and bombs can be mounted. It also includes an M61 Vulcan cannon with a 0.79-inch caliber.
