For the first time in history, the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF), known as Kōkū Jieitai, has flown fighter aircraft to Europe. Four Mitsubishi F-15J Eagles landed at RAF Coningsby, England, as part of the “Atlantic Eagles” mission, supported by Boeing KC-767 and Kawasaki C-2 aircraft.
The deployment, running from mid-September until early October 2025, aims to validate interoperability with the Royal Air Force (RAF) and includes planned flights with the German Luftwaffe and the United States Air Force (USAF).
Historic long-distance flight
Never before had the JASDF undertaken such a long-range deployment with fighters. The trans-Pacific and Atlantic crossings were staged with in-flight refueling from JASDF KC-767s and a contractor-operated Omega McDonnell-Douglas KDC-10.
Even with tanker support, the F-15Js made two technical stopovers: at Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska and at Canadian Forces Base Goose Bay in eastern Canada. After more than 9,000 kilometers of flying, the Eagles finally reached British soil.
As they approached UK airspace, the Japanese fighters were intercepted and escorted by RAF Eurofighter Typhoon FGR4s before landing at Coningsby.
Strategic support aircraft
The deployment is not limited to fighters. Two Kawasaki C-2 strategic transports accompanied the mission, bringing operational support equipment and roughly 50 personnel. The C-2, an indigenous Japanese design rarely seen outside air shows, made a rare appearance on European tarmacs.
The Boeing KC-767 tanker crews are also participating in the training, demonstrating long-range air refueling operations alongside RAF and USAF counterparts.
At Coningsby, the F-15Js are stationed alongside RAF Typhoons, with joint exercises now underway. Planned training will also involve German and American units, though neither the French Air and Space Force nor the Belgian Air Component has been included in the schedule.
According to the RAF, the Atlantic Eagles mission represents a “landmark achievement” in the 71-year history of the JASDF, underscoring Tokyo’s growing defense ties with Euro-Atlantic allies.
The Japanese aircraft are expected to leave Europe at the beginning of October 2025, retracing their trans-Atlantic route on the return home.
