U.S. Space Forces-Japan Marks One Year Since Activation at Yokota Air Base

YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan — On December 4, 2025, U.S. Space Forces-Japan (USSPACEFOR-JPN) commemorated its first anniversary since the component’s activation at Yokota Air Base, celebrating a year of strategic growth and strengthened partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region.

Established as the sixth service component of the U.S. Space Force, USSPACEFOR-JPN operates under U.S. Space Forces Indo-Pacific in direct support of U.S. Forces Japan. The unit enhances space planning, integration, coordination, and execution for joint operations, aligning closely with evolving regional security requirements.

Col. Ryan Laughton, commander of U.S. Space Forces-Japan, reflected on the milestone anniversary, underscoring the team’s progress in building operational capabilities and fostering collaborative ties with partner forces. “It’s exciting to build a component that didn’t previously exist, and I’m proud of the effort this team has put forth,” Laughton said, highlighting the importance of shared expertise and mission focus.

Over the past year, USSPACEFOR-JPN has expanded its directorates, developed critical processes, and strengthened integration with U.S. Forces and allied counterparts. This progress has deepened interoperability and enhanced readiness across space operations in support of U.S. and partner objectives in the region.

A key area of focus has been growing collaboration with the Japan Air Self-Defense Force Space Operations Group (JASDF SOG). Guardian personnel and Japanese counterparts have worked side-by-side to align space operational goals, share insights, and build enduring professional relationships. “Working with SOG has shown how strong and steadily growing our collaboration is,” said Capt. Rafael Fermin, Chief of Engagements.

The anniversary also highlighted Japan’s continued investment in its own space capabilities. As regional space domains become increasingly contested, Japan’s commitment to expanding its space domain operations complements the alliance’s broader deterrence and resilience efforts.