A seamless transition is underway at Kadena Air Base as the 355th Fighter Squadron (FS) prepares to depart and the 336th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron (EFS) assumes its role, continuing the vital mission of maintaining airpower presence and regional stability in the Indo-Pacific area.
The 355th FS, known as the “Fighting Falcons,” has completed its deployment to Kadena, having successfully executed a range of operations including air interdiction, close air support, and defensive counter-air missions. Their dedication and expertise have contributed significantly to the security and stability of the region, strengthening partnerships with allied forces.
“We are incredibly proud of the work the 355th Fighter Squadron has accomplished during their time at Kadena,” said [Insert Kadena Air Base Commander’s Name/Title If Available, Otherwise: a Kadena Air Base spokesperson]. “Their professionalism and commitment to excellence have been instrumental in maintaining a strong deterrent posture.”
Now, the 336th EFS, hailing from [Insert 336th EFS Home Base], is ready to take over the reins. The “Rocketeers” bring with them highly trained pilots, maintainers, and support personnel, along with a robust fleet of [Mention Aircraft Platform, e.g., F-15E Strike Eagles] equipped with advanced capabilities.
“The 336th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron is well-prepared to assume the mission here at Kadena,” the spokesperson added. “They have undergone extensive training and are eager to work alongside our allies and partners to ensure continued security and stability in the region.”
These rotations are a routine part of the U.S. Air Force’s commitment to forward presence and demonstrate the flexibility and adaptability of its forces. This rotational deployment strategy allows for diverse units to gain valuable experience operating in the Indo-Pacific region, enhancing interoperability with allied air forces and maintaining a high level of readiness.
The 355th FS will return to [Insert 355th FS Home Base] to conduct further training and prepare for future deployments, while the 336th EFS is poised to continue the critical mission of safeguarding regional security from Kadena Air Base. The Air Force emphasized that these rotations do not represent any change in the overall U.S. force posture in the region, but rather are designed to maximize operational effectiveness and readiness.
F-35A Lightning IIs and F-15E Strike Eagles, touched down at Kadena Air Base, April 3-6, 2025, marking the latest round of U.S. Air Force fighter deployments to the Pacific.
The F-35A’s from the 355th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, Eielson AFB, Alaska, and F-15Es from the 336th EFS, Seymour Johnson AFB, North Carolina will be integrating with 18th Wing Operations and Maintenance groups along with U.S. allies across the Pacific.
This combined force is aimed at deterring potential adversaries and supporting broader U.S. Indo-Pacific Command objectives.
“The men and women of the 355th EFS are excited to be back at Kadena Air Base. I have spent the majority of my career in PACAF and am looking forward to enhancing our squadron’s proficiency in the asymmetric advantages we share in this AOR,” said Lt. Col. Erik Gonsalves, 355th EFS commander.
As the Keystone of the Pacific, Kadena is a pivotal hub for Agile Combat Employment. The 18th Wing will continue to receive rotational units that strengthen capabilities, such as ACE, and project combat power in concert with allies and partners.
These continuous rotations of aircraft at Kadena ensure the 18th Wing remains flexible and postured to deliver lethal and credible airpower to deter acts of aggression.
“Kadena’s commitment to regional deterrence is ironclad,” said Col. David Deptula, 18th Operations Group commander. “Rotational aircraft are a normal part of Kadena’s operations, and their presence ensures the continuation of our long-standing mission to defend Japan and maintain an open and free Indo-Pacific.”
Throughout these deployments, the 18th Wing will continue to comply with applicable bilateral agreements with the Government of Japan. All visiting aircrews receive thorough briefings on local noise abatement procedures and mission planners will continue to give due consideration to the local community.
Modernizing capabilities in the Indo-Pacific theater remains a top priority. Kadena aircraft rotations exemplify the DoD’s continued commitment to maintain a continuous fighter presence while awaiting the arrival of the F-15EX.
“We are looking forward to putting our skills and training to the test and taking our mission execution to the next level here on Okinawa,” said Maj Chris Burson, 336th Fighter Generation Squadron commander. “Kadena is a fantastic opportunity for us – working alongside our mission partners, sharing experiences and techniques, will be invaluable and will ensure we are an effective fighting force in the Indo-Pacific.”
