KAGOSHIMA, Japan (AP) – Japan’s southern skies are now home to its new stealth fighters, as the first F-35B “Lightning II” jets touched down on August 7.These short take-off and vertical landing variants will operate from the air base Nyutabaru,though their ultimate mission involves naval ships. Japan now joins a select group, including the United States, Great britain, Italy, and Singapore, in operating both conventional and STOVL versions of the F-35.
Japan has ordered 42 F-35B units, with these particular jets built by Lockheed Martin in Fort Worth, Texas. This deployment, however, is already drawing criticism from local residents due to concerns about noise pollution.
Local Outcry Over Jet Noise
Japan’s new F-35B stealth fighters have landed, but residents are worried about the sound.
What is the noise level of the F-35B? Studies indicate the F-35B can reach up to 130 decibels during vertical takeoff and landing, substantially louder than many commercial aircraft.
The first three F-35B arrived in Nyutafaru on August 7th.
Demonstrating the Sound
To address the noise concerns, the JASDF plans a “flight demonstration” in mid-September. This event aims to let residents experience the F-35B’s sound firsthand. the ministry of Defense will then present its findings to the local community to guide future flight operations.
Pilots from the U.S. Marine Corps will participate as instructors. Until this demonstration, the new jets are expected to remain on the ground, with no practice flights scheduled.
Three F-35Bs made the journey to japan with a stop in hawaii. A fourth jet was expected but remained with the manufacturer for necessary maintenance.
these STOVL aircraft are slated for deployment on two ships of the Izumo class. The JS izumo is currently undergoing conversion, while the JS Kaga is actively participating in joint maneuvers in the Pacific with the U.S. and british navies. During these exercises, American and British F-35s have been operating from Japanese warships.
