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JMSDF Fleet Air Force and U.S. Navy Task Force 70 Forge Pact to Boost Joint Electronic Warfare Power

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JMSDF Fleet Air Force, U.S. Navy’s Task Force 70 sign memorandum to increase bilateral electronic attack capability

In a significant move to bolster naval collaboration, a signing ceremony took place at Naval Air Facility Atsugi in Kanagawa Prefecture, Japan. This event marked a formal agreement between commanders of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) Air Reconnaissance Squadron (VQ) 81 and Task Force 70’s electronic attack assets to enhance bilateral operations and training initiatives.

Rear Admiral Newkirk and Commander Kaneshima spearheaded this renewed pact, known as the ‘FUJIN’ Memorandum of Understanding. “Today’s revision of the ‘FUJIN’ MOU aims to fortify Integrated Fire capabilities between CFAF and CTF70,” stated Kaneshima. The two leaders agreed to advance the ‘FUJIN’ program, emphasizing mutual development of tactical abilities through rigorous joint training and exercises.

Task Force 70’s electronic attack squadrons employ the highly advanced EA-18G Growler aircraft. In contrast, JMSDF’s VQ-81 operates with the UP-3D electronic attack aircraft among other assets. The EA-18G Growler is renowned for its integration of cutting-edge electronic warfare technology like the ALQ-218 sensor and ALQ-99 pods, which excel in jamming enemy radar and communications. The aircraft continually benefits from enhancements in next-generation jamming capabilities.

Rear Admiral Newkirk commented on the enhanced collaboration, “We’re formalizing our commitment to leveraging combined technology and expertise to gain a real warfighting edge in electronic warfare.” This collaboration is expected to improve air and maritime domain awareness and sharpen combined electronic attack capabilities for both nations.

VAQ-141 is currently based at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, operating under Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 5. In addition, the expeditionary VAQ-134 operates strategically from Misawa Air Base in the north and Kadena Air Base in Okinawa to the south. Task Force 70 manages a substantial portion of the U.S. 7th Fleet’s forward-deployed air and surface forces, including notable components from Carrier Strike Group 5 like the USS George Washington and supporting vessels.

The U.S. 7th Fleet, as the largest forward-deployed numbered fleet of the U.S. Navy, frequently collaborates with international partners. Its operations play a crucial role in maintaining security and promoting a free and open Indo-Pacific region. This agreement further solidifies the commitment to these objectives.

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