Japan Air Self-Defense Force conducts Patriot Advanced Capability-3 training at Misawa

Japan Air Self-Defense Force 1st Lt. Yamamoto, left, and Leading Airman Ikumi Aomatsu, right, both Shariki Sub Base Patriot missile operators, standby during a Patriot Advanced Capability-3 deployment training at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Sept. 7, 2017. The PAC-3 guided air-and-missile defense system provides a highly reactive hit-to-kill capability in both range and altitude while operating in all environments. The planning of this evolution improves bilateral staff coordination between JASDF and U.S. forces across Japan, strengthening the mutual defense of the country. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Sadie Colbert)

Several U.S. and Japan news agencies interview Japan Air Self-Defense Force Lt. Col. Yoshichika Kawahiro, the Shariki Sub Base 21st Fire Unit commander, during a Patriot Advanced Capability-3 deployment training at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Sept. 7, 2017. The exercise deployment of the Patriot missiles tested the interoperability of U.S. and Japan forces, allow for on-site assessments of firing locations, and provide the JASDF with opportunities to test their air defense assets under conditions simulating a real-world deployment. The Patriot systems used by the Japan Air Self-Defense Force defend against incoming ballistic missiles and other threats using a 320 kg missile that travels in excess of 5,000 kph. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Sadie Colbert)

Japan Air Self-Defense Force Capt. Kazumasa Kuriki, a Shariki Sub Base a Patriot Advanced Capability-3 deployment training show commander, supervises a demonstration at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Sept. 7, 2017. The demonstration showcased the JASDF’s, also known as Koku-Jieitai, ability to rapidly execute and bilaterally coordinate complex operations across U.S. bases in Japan. Through various exercises, the U.S. and Japan continue identifying new bilateral missions, strengthening the interoperability of the forces and reinforcing stability in the region. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Sadie Colbert)

Japan Air Self-Defense Force Leading Airman Ikumi Aomatsu, a Shariki Sub Base Patriot missile operator, inspects Patriot interceptor missiles during a Patriot Advanced Capability-3 deployment training at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Sept. 7, 2017. The Patriot systems used by the Japan Air Self Defense Force defend against incoming ballistic missiles and other threats using a 320 kg missile traveling more than 5,000 kph. The Patriot system was first deployed by U.S. forces in the mid-1980s, and subsequently underwent series of modifications and improvements utilizing new technology to deliver unsurpassed air defense capabilities. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Sadie Colbert)

Japan Air Self-Defense Force Leading Airman Ikumi Aomatsu, a Shariki Sub Base Patriot missile operator, ushers in Patriot interceptor missiles during a Patriot Advanced Capability-3 deployment training at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Sept. 7, 2017. Patriot, standing for phased array tracking radar to intercept of target, protects ground forces and critical assets at all echelons from advanced aircraft, cruise missiles and tactical ballistic missiles. Bilateral exercises like this one demonstrate the enduring strength of the U.S.-Japan alliance and the determination of both nations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Sadie Colbert)

Japan Air Self-Defense Force service members bring a fuel line to a Patriot interceptor missile during a Patriot Advanced Capability-3 deployment training at Misawa Air Base, Japan, Sept. 7, 2017. A Patriot battery has six major components: a power plant, radar set, an engagement control station, launcher stations, the antenna mast group, and the interceptor missiles themselves. The bilateral training and coordination between U.S.-Japan forces increases interoperability, ensuring security and stability in the Indo-Asia-Pacific region. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Sadie Colbert)