An F-35C Lightning II with Strike Fighter Squadron 147 made its triumphant return to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, on November 17, 2024, following a significant deployment aboard the USS George Washington. (Jonathan Snyder/Stars and Stripe)
MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan — Carrier Air Wing 5, serving as the aviation component of the USS George Washington, celebrated its homecoming on Sunday at MCAS Iwakuni, accompanied by the exciting introduction of a new squadron comprising advanced F-35C Lightning II multirole fighters.
Strike Fighter Squadron 147, proudly nicknamed the Argonauts, is now recognized as the inaugural unit of F-35C aircraft stationed in Japan, marking a significant milestone, as previously operated variants of the Lightning II had already established a presence in the region, according to squadron commander Cmdr. Christopher Case during an insightful flightline briefing.
“With the F-35B that has operated in Iwakuni for quite some time and then with Japan getting their own F-35A/B, the F-35 program is not new to Japan,” he stated, emphasizing the growing integration of advanced fighter technology within Japanese defense capabilities.
An F-35C Lightning II with Strike Fighter Squadron 147 parked gracefully at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, on November 17, 2024, marking the end of its operational mission aboard the USS George Washington. (Jonathan Snyder/Stars and Stripe)
The C variant of the fifth-generation fighter is uniquely designed with larger, foldable wings and specialized arresting gear, enabling it to perform arrested landings on aircraft carriers. Its enhanced fuel capacity permits longer flight durations and greater operational ranges compared to other variants, as highlighted by its manufacturer, Lockheed Martin.
“We are essentially a very similar overall footprint to the squadron that just left,” Case affirmed, elaborating on how the 147th replaced the F/A-18E Super Hornets of Strike Fighter Squadron 115 as part of a comprehensive upgrade initiative for U.S. fighter aircraft stationed in Japan.
“What we bring is effectively a very similar footprint in terms of both aircraft numbers as well as folks and the families that are over here with us,” he added, reiterating the continuity of operations amidst the transition to the F-35C.
Significantly, an F-35C belonging to the 147th achieved a historic milestone on October 2 by becoming the first of its kind to successfully land on the USS George Washington while deployed in service of the U.S. 7th Fleet, an achievement that underscores the capabilities of this advanced aircraft.
The squadron’s aircraft also participated in critical operations while the George Washington navigated through Central and South America earlier this year as part of its deployment journey towards Yokosuka Naval Base, Japan, where it is anticipated to arrive soon, according to Navy reports on November 5.
An F/A-18E Super Hornet with Strike Fighter Squadron 195 effortlessly taxies at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, on November 17, 2024, after returning from its deployment on the USS George Washington. (Jonathan Snyder/Stars and Stripe)
Additionally, Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron 30, another newly integrated Navy unit within the carrier wing, arrived at MCAS Iwakuni on November 9, as stated by squadron pilot Lt. Blake Barber during a flight line discussion on Sunday.
The CMV-22B, recognized as the Navy’s adaptation of the Osprey, is engineered to transport cargo and personnel efficiently to and from aircraft carriers. It replaces the legacy C-2A Greyhound while boasting larger fuel tanks for enhanced operational range, and its tiltrotor design allows vertical takeoff and landing like a helicopter, combined with the speed of a fixed-wing aircraft.
A CMV-22B Osprey assigned to Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron 30 ascends into the skies from Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, on November 17, 2024. (Jonathan Snyder/Stars and Stripe)
However, the Osprey’s operational history has been marred by a series of tragic accidents, the most recent being on November 29 when an Air Force CV-22 tragically crashed offshore of southern Japan, resulting in the loss of all eight personnel aboard. Following this incident, all U.S. and Japanese military Ospreys were temporarily grounded for an extensive three-month investigation, with the fleet cleared for flight once again in March.
Barber referred inquiries about the Osprey’s safety protocols to the Navy’s Task Force 70, emphasizing a commitment to operational rigor and diligence.
“We will support the carrier whenever it needs us to,” he assured, indicating a readiness to execute various training missions and operational tasks.
How does the integration of the F-35C with allied forces enhance collective defense strategies in the Indo-Pacific region?
**Interview with Cmdr. Christopher Case, Squadron Commander of Strike Fighter Squadron 147**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Cmdr. Case. Congratulations on the successful return of Strike Fighter Squadron 147 and the introduction of the F-35C Lightning II to Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni. Can you share what this milestone means for your squadron and for U.S. operations in Japan?
**Cmdr. Case:** Thank you! This return and the arrival of the F-35C represent a significant step forward for our capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. The F-35C is designed for carrier operations with unique features like larger foldable wings and specialized arresting gear. This allows us to extend our operational range and mission versatility, ensuring that we remain a key player in regional defense.
**Editor:** You mentioned how the F-35 program isn’t new to Japan. Can you elaborate on how the integration of this new variant will enhance the existing defense structure?
**Cmdr. Case:** Absolutely. Japan has embraced the F-35 program with their own F-35A and B variants already in operation. The introduction of the F-35C strengthens that integration by providing a multirole aircraft that can seamlessly operate alongside our allied forces. This enhances interoperability and collective defense in the region, ultimately contributing to a stronger security posture.
**Editor:** The F-35C achieved a historic milestone by being the first of its kind to land on the USS George Washington. How did that milestone impact the squadron’s operations during deployment?
**Cmdr. Case:** Landing on the USS George Washington was a pivotal moment for us. It showcased the aircraft’s capabilities and set a precedent for future operations. Our deployment itself involved critical missions through Central and South America, which not only demonstrated our readiness but also our capacity to operate effectively in diverse environments. This proves our commitment to maintaining a robust presence in the Pacific.
**Editor:** With the transition from the older F/A-18E Super Hornets, what kind of continuity can your personnel and families expect?
**Cmdr. Case:** Our squadron is essentially maintaining a similar footprint in terms of personnel and aircraft numbers. We aim to provide a smooth transition for our families, ensuring they feel supported as we shift to this advanced platform. The F-35C, while different, will bear similarities in operational tempo and mission, which allows us to effectively carry on with our responsibilities without missing a beat.
**Editor:** Lastly, what message would you like to convey to the community as your squadron embarks on this new chapter?
**Cmdr. Case:** I want to express our gratitude to the local community and our families for their unwavering support. The introduction of the F-35C is not just a technological advancement; it symbolizes our commitment to security and stability in the region. Together, we are ready to face future challenges and ensure peace in the Indo-Pacific. Thank you!
