5th Air Force hosts JAAGA, strengthening U.S.-Japan bilateral operations at Yokota

5th Air Force hosted 36 members of the Japan-America Air Force Goodwill Association, or JAAGA, during a visit to Yokota Air Base Nov. 5, 2026, reinforcing the longstanding relationship among U.S. Air Force personnel, Japan Air Self-Defense Force members and Japanese community leaders.

The delegation included retired Lt. Gen. Shigeki Muto, JAAGA vice president and former commander of JASDF Air Defense Command, as well as retired senior officers and representatives from Japan’s defense industry. Lt. Gen. Inatsuki Hidetada, current ADC commander and Col. Nathan Colunga, 5th AF deputy commander, participated in the engagement alongside a total of 18 additional JASDF and 5th AF senior commissioned and noncommissioned officers.

The visit included discussions with 5th Air Force and JASDF leaders on the U.S.-Japan alliance, bilateral cooperation and the role of community relationships in supporting the mission. The program also gave JAAGA members an opportunity to engage directly with Airmen and learn more about Yokota’s role in supporting regional operations.

After expressing his gratitude for JAAGA members’ participation in the event, Colunga said, “If I learned one thing in the short time that I’ve been here with 5th Air Force, it’s that there is an incredible partnership here. Today is an opportunity for us to come together and get to know each other a little bit closer.”

JAAGA, which was established in 1996, has significant representation from retired JASDF members and promotes friendship, mutual understanding and trust between U.S. and Japanese air forces. The organization also recognizes U.S. and Japanese personnel whose work strengthens bilateral cooperation and supports professional, cultural and community exchanges.

“We really appreciate the opportunity to visit the ADC and 5th Air Force Headquarters today,” said Muto. “The strong bond between the Koku-Jieitai and the U.S. Air Force, especially here in Yokota is a very important part of the Japan-U.S. Alliance which plays a vital role in maintaining peace and stability in this region.” Koku-Jieitai is the shortened form of the official Japanese name for the Japan Air Self-Defense Force.

Throughout the day leaders highlighted the alliance as a daily operational relationship rather than an occasional engagement. They discussed cooperation between headquarters, planning and training, as well as the importance of maintaining strong relationships with local communities as U.S. and Japanese forces expand bilateral activities.

“The Air Defense Command has been stationed at Yokota Air Base for 40 years,” said Inatsuki. “We have been shoulder to shoulder working together with not only the 5th Air Force but with the 374th [Airlift Wing] as well.”

JASDF Air Defense Command leaders also provided context on missions that extend beyond fighter operations, including radar surveillance, and transportation support.

JAAGA’s continued engagement with 5th AF and the ADC reflects its role as a bridge between the U.S. military, JASDF veterans, industry leaders and Japanese communities. Those relationships remain essential to sustaining mutual understanding and support for the alliance.

“As the saying goes, ‘A strong alliance is built on three things: trust, friendship and mutual support,’” said Muto. “JAAGA will always do its best to strengthen these bonds and support the Japan-U.S. Alliance. This is our promise to you, whenever you need our support, JAAGA is always glad to assist.”

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