Photo By Senior Airman Erin Currie | A Japan Air Self-Defense Force F-15J Eagle assigned to 304th Tactical Fighter Squadron, takes off from Kadena Air Base following joint hot-pit refueling operations at Kadena Air Base, Japan, Oct 15, 2025. Joint training allows U.S. and Japanese forces to refine cooperation and strengthen their shared mission to ensure peace and stability throughout the Indo-Pacific region. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Erin Currie) see less
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Refueled and Ready: U.S. and Japan enhance ACE capabilities at Kadena
KADENA AIR BASE, Japan - U.S. Air Force Airmen from the 18th Maintenance Group and 18th Logistics Readiness Squadron teamed up with members of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force to conduct joint hot pit refueling operations at Kadena Air Base, Japan, Oct. 15, 2025.
The training marked one of the first times that U.S. Air Force and JASDF personnel performed the high-tempo refueling procedure together at Kadena, strengthening bilateral cooperation and enhancing Agile Combat Employment capabilities across both forces.
Hot pit refueling — the process of refueling an aircraft while its engines are still running — allows crews to get jets back in the air faster while minimizing downtime for maintenance personnel. The practice embodies the ACE concept by improving efficiency, flexibility and interoperability in dynamic environments.
“Training events like this give our Airmen a chance to not only improve their skills, but to learn from and grow with our Japanese allies,” said Master Sgt. Andrew Augustine, 18th MXG maintenance tactics and operations manager. “It’s a great way to forge stronger relationships with our partners.”
The ACE concept focuses on empowering Airmen to adapt quickly and operate effectively in unpredictable environments. By training in joint settings, Airmen develop the problem-solving and cross-functional skills needed to sustain airpower from any location.
“Working with the JASDF gives everyone a chance to learn how to work together,” said Staff Sgt. Stephen Roop, 18th MXG quality assurance inspector. “Training together now helps us prepare for any potential real world operations, where our ability to come together would be vital for mission success.”
Every opportunity for U.S. and Japanese personnel to operate side-by-side reinforces the long-standing alliance between the two nations and contributes to regional stability across the Indo-Pacific.
Joint hot pit refueling showcases not just operational efficiency, but the trust and teamwork that define the U.S.-Japan partnership. When the Air Force and JASDF demonstrate the ability to sustain and project airpower together, it strengthens deterrence and promotes a free and open Indo-Pacific.
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