The historic moment of fixed-wing aircraft taking flight from a Japanese battleship has rekindled discussions on Japan’s evolving defense capabilities and its commitment to regional security. On October 3rd, two Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters successfully launched and landed aboard Japan’s largest cruiser, the JS Izumo (DDH-183), marking a significant milestone in Japan’s naval aviation history.

The JS Izumo, originally designated as an “Izumo-class multipurpose destroyer,” was commissioned in 2015 with the intention of serving various purposes. However, its recent transformation into a platform capable of supporting fixed-wing aircraft operations signifies a shift in Japan’s strategic outlook. Japanese Defense Minister Takeshi Iwaya expressed the desire to utilize these ships to their fullest potential.