MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan -- The Japan Air Self-Defense Force 6th Air Defense Missile Group, 21st Fire Unit from Shariki Sub Base, Tsugari City, conducted a Patriot Advanced Capability-3 interceptor deployment training at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Sept. 7.

The PAC-3 interceptor, a surface-to-air missile defense system, provides a highly reactive hit-to-kill capability in both range and altitude while operating in all environments.

This training demonstrates the strength of the U.S.-Japan alliance, providing security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific Region, while showcasing the Kouku-Jieitai’s ability to rapidly deploy multiple defense assets to military installations across Japan.

“The purpose of today’s training is to further develop Japan’s tactical capabilities following the series of missile launches by North Korea,” said Lt. Col. Yoshichika Kawahiro, the Shariki Sub Base and 21st Fire Unit commander. “As well as contribute to reinforcing the U.S.-Japan alliance and how we work closely to each other. Today’s training acted as a bridge between Japan and the U.S.”

The system protects ground forces and critical assets at all echelons from advanced aircraft to cruise missiles and tactical-ballistic missiles.

“Doing this at various locations and circumstances tests our response capabilities and even enhances and promotes our readiness to cope with different situations under any circumstance,” added Kawahiro.

The training boosts defense cooperation between the U.S. and Japan, enabling tactical units to improve interoperability while strengthening long-standing military partnerships.

“In addition to this PAC-3 deployment, we exercise with our allies constantly,” said Col. R. Scott Jobe, the 35th Fighter Wing commander. “We diversify and advance the scope, scale and capacity of bilateral events to continue strengthening our alliance and mission readiness with Japan.”

Bilateral coordination enables operational units to improve joint capabilities and tactical skills, building bilateral confidence and strong working relationships to support regional security.

“We continue to support and develop exercises and power projection capabilities with our Japanese counterparts,” Jobe added. “At the same time, we are strengthening our alliances we have with the community, reassuring our partners the U.S. will be here in lockstep with them--no matter what happens.”