The British deployment marks the first time ever Japan's Air Self Defense Force has hosted joint exercises with aircraft from a nation other than the United States.
"This exercise aims to enhance tactical skills of the air forces and strengthen Japan-Britain defense cooperation. We do not have a specific country or region in mind," Japan's Defense Ministry said.
But they come at a time when Japan is becoming increasingly embroiled in disputes with North Korea over Pyongyang's testing of nuclear warheads and missiles that could potentially carry them.
