As the Italian Navy’s ITS Cavour sets sail for a landmark Indo-Pacific deployment, it carries with it a symbol of deepening military cooperation and prowess: the F-35B Lightning II.
The historic journey to Japan marks the first-ever port call by the Italian flagship in the country, reinforcing the bonds between Italy and Japan, allies of both past world conflicts and current diplomatic landscapes.
The ITS Cavour, commissioned in 2008, will not only visit Australia but also partake in joint training exercises with the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), focusing on the intricacies of operating the formidable F-35B stealth fighters.
As the Cavour harbors three such jets, with an eye on expanding its fleet, these maneuvers underscore Italy’s commitment as a Level II partner in the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program.
The synergy between the Italian and Japanese navies is also highlighted by the ongoing transformation of the JMSDF’s Izumo-class ships. These vessels, notably JS Izumo and JS Kaga, are being revamped to host F-35B operations.
These upgrades are not just refurbishments but a strategic pivot for Japan, as it cautiously navigates the constitutional constraints that have long barred it from deploying offensive military assets.
In parallel, the United States has been flexing its naval muscle in the region through joint exercises with Japan.
The US Navy’s impressive display, featuring two aircraft carriers and a fleet of destroyers and cruisers, sends a potent message of allied strength and rapid response capability across the Indo-Pacific.
Adding to the air of military interoperability, the Italian Air Force too is gearing up for a deployment of F-35 stealth jets to Japan.
This initiative is part of a comprehensive “package” that includes airborne early warning aircraft and tankers, exemplifying the multi-layered collaboration between the Italian and Japanese forces.
The aim is clear: to foster mutual understanding and enhance tactical skills while echoing the shared strategic vision of a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific.”
As the JMSDF prepares to welcome its first batch of F-35Bs, the groundwork is well underway. A new temporary squadron is taking shape at Nyutabaru Air Base, slated to complement the capabilities of the modified Izumo-class carriers.
The Japanese Ministry of Defense’s record defense budget showcases a dedicated focus on establishing the necessary units and facilities to operationalize these cutting-edge fighters.
Moreover, the construction of the Mageshima Air Base epitomizes Japan’s meticulous preparation for F-35B carrier operations.
With plans for a Simulated F-35B Shipboard Facility and ongoing infrastructure development, Mageshima is set to become a linchpin in Japan’s defense strategy, serving as both a peacetime training hub and a wartime alternative base.