Japan and the United States conducted joint air exercises over the East China Sea and the Pacific Ocean, signaling a continued collaboration between the two allied forces. The operation, reported by TASS and drawing on the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, involved over 50 aviation assets from both nations, including four F-35A fighters deployed by the United States. The drills focused on tactical formations, interdiction scenarios, and the enhancement of interoperability between the two air forces, reflecting a sustained emphasis on alliance readiness and regional security dynamics. source: TASS
Separately, the aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan’s strike group advanced into the South China Sea earlier in the week. The carrier group comprises multiple ships, notably the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Antietam (CG 54) and the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Higgins (DDG 76), underscoring the scale and reach of U.S. naval operations in the region. source: U.S. Navy announcements
In northern waters, the Russian Northern Fleet announced the initiation of anti-submarine exercises in the Barents Sea. The fleet’s command indicated a staged program designed to practice joint maneuvering, sensor coordination, and damage-control procedures while ships maneuver under way. This activity, separate from the American-led drills, highlights ongoing high-readiness training across major maritime powers and the importance of maritime domain awareness in Arctic and northern European theaters. source: Northern Fleet press release