U.S. bombers deployed to Japan raise concerns while aiming to deter North Korea and China

In late April 2025, the United States Air Force sent two B-1B Lancer bombers from Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, to Japan as part of a rotational Bomber Task Force mission. This deployment aims to strengthen military cooperation with allies in the region, including Japan and South Korea, amidst rising tensions with China and North Korea. The interoperability between the Japan Air Self-Defense Force and U.S. Air Force was highlighted during a bilateral exercise featuring F-35A Lightning II fighter escorts for the bombers. However, the deployment faced controversy following an incident where one of the bombers made an emergency landing at Misawa Air Base. The emergency landing led to the closure of a shared runway with Misawa Airport, resulting in disrupted civil flight operations, which raised concerns from local officials about safety and the impact on residents. Misawa city and Aomori prefecture officials cited fears that these military operations could create anxiety among the local population. The U.S. military emphasizes that the deployment serves as a strong message of deterrence to both North Korea and China, given the proximity of Misawa Air Base to their territories—approximately 810 miles from Pyongyang and around 1,300 miles from Beijing. Such military exercises are critical in bolstering the regional deterrence capability, underlining the importance of frequent and realistic training with allies, especially in light of North Korea's increasing aggressiveness and China's assertive posture in the region. Moreover, the recent maritime exercises involving the U.S. Navy and South Korean forces illustrate the ongoing commitment of the United States to enhance collective military capabilities. Through these joint efforts, both countries aim to improve their interoperability and readiness against potential threats in the Indo-Pacific. The emphasis on steady training exercises reinforces the strategic partnerships among the United States and its allies in ensuring peace and stability in the region.