US, Japan Conduct Bilateral Aviation Exercise Published Nov. 22, 2023 By U.S. Forces Japan U.S. Forces Japan SEA OF JAPAN -- U.S. Forces and the Japan Self-Defense Forces conducted a bilateral aviation exercise over the Sea of Japan on Nov. 22, 2023, demonstrating the enduring deterrence options readily available to the U.S.-Japan Alliance.Four F-16 fighter aircraft with the U.S. Air Force integrated with four Japan Air Self-Defense Force F-15 fighter aircraft, exemplifying our alliance's ability to quickly and decisively respond to threats against Japan and the region. The U.S. remains committed to peace and prosperity throughout the Indo-Pacific alongside our Japanese allies, together acting as the cornerstone of regional peace and security and presenting an ironclad defense of Japan.