YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- The commander of U.S. Space Forces Indo-Pacific engaged with several Japan Air Self-Defense Force officials during a series of meetings at the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo, the Ministry of Defense, and the JASDF Space Operations Group, Dec. 2, 2024.
U.S. Space Force Brig. Gen Anthony J. Mastalir, met with Japanese counterparts about the growing importance of U.S. -Japan cooperation in the space domain, serving as a prelude to the historic activation of the U.S. Space Force unit in Japan.
“Together we will remain committed to ensuring the continuous, safe, secure, and sustainable use of outer space for current and future generations,” said Mastalir. “These partnership efforts send a message, the US and Japan alliance is stronger than ever, and we are ready to defend on land, in the air, in the maritime domain, and now in the space domain.”
During the engagements, Mastalir addressed shared challenges and opportunities in the evolving space environment with meetings focused on advancing bilateral initiatives such as enhanced space situational awareness, improved interoperability, and collaborative mission planning.
As part of the engagements, U.S. Space Force officials also toured the JASDF Space Operations Group headquarters. The visit emphasized the importance of leveraging the strengths of both nations to further develop integrated space operations.
By expanding collaboration in space, the U.S. and Japan continue to build a foundation for enduring stability and prosperity in the region, ensuring the security of shared interests well into the future.