Photo By Senior Airman Patrick Boyle | A U.S. Air Force Airman assigned to the 13th Fighter Generation Squadron wears a patch...... read more read more
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MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan – Petroleum, Oil, and Lubricants (POL) specialists from the 35th Logistics Readiness Squadron (LRS) and 13th Fighter Generation Squadron maintenance personnel worked alongside Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) 3rd Air Wing POL and maintenance members to conduct a bilateral refueling interoperability demonstration at Misawa Air Base, May 30, 2025.
The demonstration showcased enhanced sortie generation capabilities and highlighted the strength of the U.S.-Japan partnership. The event validated refueling procedures between two aircraft types and support assets—U.S. F-16 Fighting Falcons and JASDF F-35 Lightning IIs.
“This event showcased the bilateral interoperability between JASDF and USAF refueling assets to increase partner nation flexibility in support of various operational objectives,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Kira Duenas, 35th LRS fuels management flight commander.
During the event, POL personnel successfully refueled a JASDF F-35 and a U.S. F-16 alongside JASDF maintenance teams, with support from both nations’ maintenance personnel. This cross-support scenario allowed each force to deepen its understanding of the other’s procedures, equipment, and operational practices.
“You know what they say in our career field, without fuel, pilots are pedestrians,” said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Lacey Crowley, 35th LRS traffic safety manager. “This interoperability demonstration wasn’t just about fuel, though. It proved our shared dedication to a strong partnership and to secure the region.”
The event focused on personnel familiarization, hands-on training, and strengthening the ability to execute joint missions. For those involved, it was both a technical success and a meaningful step toward long-term collaboration.
“We want to keep doing these kinds of exercises regularly and continue building our relationship more and more—especially here at Misawa,” said JASDF 1st Lt. Daisuke Kawagishi, 3rd Air Wing Maintenance Squadron.
Through direct coordination and shared responsibilities, the teams improved readiness, built mutual trust, and reinforced the strategic alliance that underpins regional security in the Indo-Pacific. By collaborating with our host nation partners, Misawa continues to perform a critical role in advancing bilateral operations and fostering interoperability between U.S. and Japanese forces.
| Date Taken: | 06.04.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 06.05.2025 21:56 |
| Story ID: | 499801 |
| Location: | MISAWA AIR BASE, AOMORI, JP |
| Web Views: | 72 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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