Rain showers propel USAF, JASDF RADR training capabilities Published June 28, 2024 By Airman 1st Class Samantha White 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan – The 374th Civil Engineer Squadron and Japan Air Self-Defense Force conducted bilateral rapid airfield damage repair training at Iruma Air Base, Japan, June 18. RADR is a multi-staged process that quickly and effectively repairs airfields, allowing for operations to continue in combat situations. This training fostered an environment where U.S. Air Force and JASDF members could learn from one another through sharing RADR methods. U.S. Air Force and Japan Air Self-Defense members conduct a joint cutting procedure during a bilateral airfield damage repair training at Iruma Air Base, Japan, June 18, 2024. RADR is a multi-staged process that quickly and effectively repairs airfields, allowing for operations to continue in combat situations. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Samantha White) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res “Although it’s raining severely, this training provides us with a more unique experience,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Vincent Chou, 374th CES operations engineering chief. “Essentially, we are preparing ourselves for how to respond to future unforeseen weather conditions.” The two forces worked side-by-side to repair ten craters and ten spalls. Both forces contributed heavy equipment and tools to utilize during the training. The repair processes included debris removal, cutting, excavating, rapid concrete mixing, and concrete placement. U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Cristian Monge Hidalgo, 374th Civil Engineer Squadron heavy equipment operator, watches as rapid airfield damage repair is conducted at Iruma Air Base, Japan, June 18, 2024. The 374th CES conducts training quarterly to enhance readiness and RADR capabilities. This was the second time joint RADR training was conducted at Iruma AB. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Samantha White) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res “It is important we are able to fix a damaged airfield anytime and in any condition,” said Japan Air Self-Defense Force 1st Lt. Masahiro Ono, Central Air Civil Engineering Group flight chief. “Interoperability between Japan and the U.S. is one of the keys to a successful mission.” The 374th CES conducts quarterly training to enhance readiness and RADR abilities. This was the second time joint RADR training was conducted at Iruma AB. “Training with the U.S. allows us to build upon our capabilities,” said Ono. “If we ever have any issues, their proximity allows Yokota CES to provide support rapidly, which is very reassuring.” Combined training like RADR bolsters our partnerships and mission readiness capabilities at Yokota by strengthening valuable technical skills in personnel and allowing for information sharing between USAF and JASDF forces.