Japan, the Republic of Korea (ROK) and the United States conducted a trilateral aerial exercise in November 2024 in a planned response to North Korea’s recent intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) test. The exercise, which involved a U.S. B-1B Lancer bomber, demonstrated the three nations’ commitment to regional security and deterrence against North Korean threats.
The drill featured Japan Air Self-Defense Force F-2s from the 8th Air Wing, ROK Air Force F-15Ks from the 11th Fighter Wing, and U.S. F-16 fighter jets from the 36th Fighter Squadron. The aircraft escorted the B-1B bomber around the Korean Peninsula, showcasing the Allies’ ability to conduct coordinated operations in response to provocations.
In a statement, the ROK’s Joint Chiefs of Staff emphasized the importance of the trilateral exercise in enhancing the Allies’ readiness and interoperability saying the exercise demonstrated the firm resolve to respond to North Korea’s advancing nuclear and missile programs, reiterating the Alliance’s “overwhelming capability to swiftly and accurately strike simulated targets.”
The U.S. often deploys strategic assets, such as bombers and aircraft carriers, to the Indo-Pacific in response to North Korean missile tests. This eployment of the B-1B bomber marks the fourth time in 2024 that the U.S. has flown the aircraft over or near the Korean Peninsula.
The trilateral exercise also highlighted the growing security cooperation between the Japan, South Korea and the U.S. “Our three nations maintain an absolute commitment to the shared vision of a secure, rules-based, and open Indo-Pacific region,” U.S. Indo-Pacific Command said in a statement.
The exercise came amid heightened tensions on the Korean Peninsula, with North Korea continuing to develop its missile and nuclear programs despite international sanctions.
North Korea’s missile test on October 31, 2024, involved the launch of a new ICBM, the Hwasong-19, which reached an altitude of 7,687.5 kilometers and flew for 85 minutes and 56 seconds. The missile’s flight time and altitude set records for North Korean missile tests, raising concerns about Pyongyang’s advancing capabilities. The test drew condemnation from the international community, with calls for North Korean leader Kim Jong Un to return to negotiations and halt its provocative actions. Japan, South Korea and the U.S. have reiterated their commitment to a diplomatic solution while maintaining a strong defense posture.
As tensions continue to rise, Japan, South Korea and the U.S. remain vigilant and prepared to respond to any threats. The trilateral exercise serves as a reminder of the importance of cooperation and coordination in addressing regional security challenges and underscores the commitment among the three nations to maintaining regional peace and stability.