Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 533, known as the “Hawks,” arrived at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, on September 5, 2026. The U.S. F-35B squadron deploys to Japan from South Carolina as part of the Marine Corps’ Unit Deployment Program to replace VMFA-232, maintaining combat readiness and supporting the U.S.-Japan Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security across the Indo-Pacific.
Why does the F-35B squadron deploys to Japan?
The U.S. F-35B squadron deploys to Japan to integrate with the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing and Marine Aircraft Group 12. This rotation provides essential experience in the Indo-Pacific, allowing the unit to conduct aviation operations from naval and expeditionary environments while ensuring the U.S. remains prepared to meet regional security requirements and promote stability.
What is the Unit Deployment Program?
The Unit Deployment Program is a rotational system that sends continental U.S.-based units to the Indo-Pacific for continuous, overlapping deployments. By rotating squadrons like the Hawks, the Marine Corps maintains a persistent, combat-ready aviation presence, enhancing the ability of 1st Marine Aircraft Wing to respond to security challenges and uphold international defense commitments in the region.
