Yakota AFB

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Branch

U.S. Air Force

Members

About Yakota AFB

Yokota Air Base, located in Fussa, Tokyo, Japan, has served as a vital hub for U.S. military operations in the Pacific since its establishment by the Imperial Japanese Army in 1940 and subsequent occupation by U.S. forces in 1945. Following World War II, the base was developed into a major U.S. Air Force installation, playing a significant role during the Korean War, Vietnam War, and throughout the Cold War as a strategic airlift and command center. Today, Yokota AFB is home to the 374th Airlift Wing and serves as the headquarters for United States Forces Japan and the Fifth Air Force. The base continues to support regional stability, humanitarian missions, and joint training exercises, underscoring its enduring importance in the U.S.-Japan security alliance.

Unit Members

Jimmie Corn

U.S. Air Force

Yakota AFBView Profile

Edward Outlaw

U.S. Air Force

Yakota AFBView Profile

Photos

U.S. Air Force • 1976

stationed at johnson air force base in japan

U.S. Air Force • 1949

About Yakota AFB

About this Unit

Historical Facts

• Established During World War II: Yokota Air Base, often misspelled as “Yakota,” was originally constructed in 1940 by the Imperial Japanese Army and named Tama Airfield. • US Control After WWII: The US took control of the base in 1945, renaming it Yokota Air Base and transforming it into a major American military installation in the Pacific. • Strategic Location: Yokota AFB is located in Fussa, on the western outskirts of Tokyo. Its proximity to the Japanese capital makes it a vital hub for logistics and command operations. • Home to US Forces Japan: Yokota is the headquarters for United States Forces Japan (USFJ) and the Fifth Air Force, playing a critical role in US-Japan defense relations. • Vietnam War Support: During the Vietnam War, Yokota AFB served as a launching point for airlift operations and supported reconnaissance and tactical missions. • Major Humanitarian Hub: Yokota has played key roles in disaster relief, including Operation Tomodachi after the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami, coordinating aid deliveries and evacuations. • VIP and Presidential Gateway: The base often receives Air Force One and other VIP aircraft, serving as the main arrival point for US presidents and dignitaries visiting Japan. • Large Community: Yokota AFB provides services to over 14,000 military personnel, civilians, and family members, with schools, hospitals, and recreational facilities on base. • Annual Friendship Festival: The base hosts the popular Yokota Friendship Festival, inviting tens of thousands of Japanese visitors to tour aircraft, enjoy American food, and foster US-Japan relations. • Cold War Significance: During the Cold War, Yokota AFB was a major intelligence-gathering and reconnaissance center, with U-2 Spy Planes operating from the base for missions over Asia.