US, Japanese Airmen Sharpen Skills in Keen Sword

Airmen based at Misawa AB, Japan, are partnering with members of the Japanese Air Self Defense Force for Exercise Keen Sword, a two-week-long joint bilateral training event that runs through Nov. 16. “It’s an incredible opportunity to personally work with our Japanese counterparts and strengthen our relationship,” said Capt. Matthew Hoyt of Misawa’s 13th Fighter Squadron, in a Nov. 9 base release. He added, “Not only does this give us a chance to test tactics together, but [it] allows us the opportunity to share cultures and insight into one another’s operating styles.” Misawa’s role in Keen Sword is “to lead the integration efforts with JASDF,” said Col. Samuel Shaneyfelt, 35th Operations Group commander. During the exercises, the two forces will run through a variety of realistic combat scenarios based on defense of the region. “Learning to integrate and maximize each others’ strengths and minimizing the weaknesses are all part of fortifying our working relationship,” said Lt. Col. John McDaniel, 13th FS commander. (Misawa report by A1C Kenna Jackson)