U.S. F-15 training exercises begin at ASDF Komatsu base

   As part of the realignment of U.S. forces in Japan, five Kadena-based U.S. F-15 fighter jets on May 16 arrived at the Air Self-Defense Force Komatsu Base in Ishikawa Prefecture to conduct the relocated training exercises jointly with the ASDF. The exercises will continue until May 23.

   Local peace and democratic organizations are opposing the joint exercises, saying that they will cause an increase in noise pollution and possibility of accidents.

   The Japanese Communist Party Ishikawa Prefectural Committee on the same day made representations to Komatsu City Mayor Nishimura Toru, calling him to revoke the acceptance of the relocated training.

   Similar relocated training exercises took place for the first time at the ASDF Tsuiki Base (Fukuoka Pref.) in March.

   U.S. forces have conducted flight training exercises at the Komatsu base 14 times since 1998.                               - Akahata, May 17, 2007