Marine F-35B Squadron Deploys to Japan for Indo-Pacific Operations

Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 533 arrived at Marine Corps Air Station Iwakuni, Japan, on September 5, 2026, beginning a rotational deployment that will strengthen Marine aviation operations across the Indo-Pacific.

Known as the “Hawks,” VMFA-533 operates the short-takeoff-and-vertical-landing F-35B Lightning II. The squadron is permanently based at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort, South Carolina.

Joining the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing

During its deployment, VMFA-533 will operate as part of Marine Aircraft Group 12 under the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing. The squadron will conduct aviation operations, participate in regional training and maintain its ability to respond rapidly to potential crises.

The Hawks replace Marine Fighter Attack Squadron 232 as the Marine Corps’ rotationally deployed fighter squadron at Iwakuni.

By integrating with MAG-12, VMFA-533 will help provide commanders with a combat-ready aviation force capable of operating from established airfields, temporary expeditionary bases and amphibious ships.

The F-35B Lightning II

The F-35B brings advanced sensors, stealth technology and networked targeting capabilities to Marine aviation. Its ability to perform short takeoffs and vertical landings allows it to operate from locations that cannot support conventional fighter aircraft.

That flexibility is especially important in the Indo-Pacific, where forces may have to operate across great distances from widely dispersed islands, airfields and ships.

The aircraft can support air-to-air combat, precision strikes, intelligence collection and the detection of threats throughout the battlespace. It can also share information with other American and allied forces, helping commanders build a clearer picture of activity in the region.

The Unit Deployment Program

VMFA-533 deployed to Japan through the Marine Corps’ Unit Deployment Program. The program regularly sends units based in the continental United States to forward locations in the Indo-Pacific.

These overlapping rotations maintain a continuous American presence while giving Marines experience operating alongside forward-deployed forces, partner nations and allied militaries.

The deployments also allow units to train under the geographic and logistical conditions they could face during an actual crisis.

Strengthening the American Presence in Japan

The arrival of the Hawks expands the 1st Marine Aircraft Wing’s ability to organize aviation forces for missions throughout the region. It also demonstrates the United States’ continuing commitment to Japan under the Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security.

From MCAS Iwakuni, VMFA-533 will help support regional deterrence, improve operational readiness and strengthen cooperation between the United States and its Indo-Pacific allies.

For the Hawks, the deployment offers an opportunity to apply the F-35B’s advanced capabilities in one of the world’s most strategically important regions.