TSUIKI AIR BASE, Japan -- Twelve F-15s and more than 150 Kadena Airmen wrapped up two weeks of bilateral training with the Japan Air Self-Defense Force members at Tsuiki Air Base in Japan, Sept. 3.

The aviation training relocation program is designed to increase operational readiness and interoperability between U.S. and Japanese forces while reducing the impact of training on local communities surrounding Kadena.

"This Training was very good for us," said Lt. Col. Kevin Jamieson, 44th Fighter Squadron commander. "It helps strengthen our relationships as well as build mutual trust which helps the U.S. and Japan increase our strategic alliance."

Working side-by-side Kadena Airmen have had multiple opportunities to interact and see how JASDF Airmen accomplish a similar mission.

"We were able to enhance our interoperability through this ATR and even though we were affected by the typhoon we were able to train effectively in the air as well as on the ground," said Japan Air Self-Defense Force Col. Hirohisha Takakusaki, 8th Operations Group commander. "Having our briefings together face to face was of the greatest benefit for our JASDF pilots."

Kadena Airmen also had several opportunities to interact and spend time with the local community; members spent time visiting different schools in the area as well as participate in a parade with their JASDF counterparts and many social events including informal dinners and an 8th Wing commander sponsored evening social that brought together community leaders and leaders from both services.

"Of all the trips I've been on, this was the most fun that I have had on a TDY," said Staff Sgt. Nathan Dowling, 18th Maintenance Group unit deployment manager. "It's enjoyable to get to know our JASDF counterparts and understand the similarities and differences in our jobs."

The U.S.-Japan security alliance has remained the cornerstone of peace and security in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region for 50 years.

"Our relationship with the government of Japan is very close and we will continue to work together in support of our alliance and bilateral partnership," said Jamieson. "All of our Airmen worked very hard this ATR and we look forward to continuing these missions and improving our interoperability in the future."