Japan to deploy stealth fighters by 2024 to counter Chinese threat 

 

TOKYO:

Amid the growing Chinese assertiveness in the East China Sea, Japan will deploy the advanced F-35B stealth fighter aircraft for the first time in 2024.

The decision was taken following the perceived threat posed by China's military in Japan's territorial waters.

Japan recently procured 42 highly advanced fifth-generation F-35B fighter jets from the US, and the first squadron of 18 jets, will be based in Air-Self Defence Force's Nyutabaru Air Base.

The F-35B fighters will operate with Izumo-class vessels, and later with other carriers reported to be under development.

Japan's Defence Ministry also confirmed that the Chinese Aircraft carrier Liaoning had traversed the Japanese waters between the main island of southern Okinawa Prefecture and Miyako Island.

(Edited by Shankar Kumar Turha)

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