Japanese Fighter Pilots Begin Training in Italy

China Threat | October 28, 2021 | adADMIN

U.S. Air Force, Japan Air Self-Defense Force and Royal Australian air force aircraft fly in formation during Cope North 15, Feb. 17, 2015, off the coast of Guam. During the exercise, the U.S., Japan and Australia air forces worked on developing combat capabilities enhancing air superiority, electronic warfare, air interdiction, tactical airlift and aerial refueling. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Jason Robertson/Released)

ROME – Fledgling fighter pilots from Japan are signing up for training in Italy as the Mediterranean country’s pilot school expands operations.

In a deal signed between the air force chiefs of Italy and Japan, Japanese pilots will undertake Phase 4 advanced training courses in Italy, while Japanese instructors may arrive at a later date to work with Italian colleagues.

Currently based at Galatina air base in southern heel of Italy, phase 4 students will transfer next year to a new dedicated facility at Decimomannu air base on the Italian island of Sardinia.

The Japanese pilots will join German pilots who are due to arrive following a deal struck with the German air force in September, while Qatari pilots are already undertaking Phase 4 training in Italy.