When faced with the threat of a natural disaster, military forces must adapt quickly to ensure the safety of their equipment and personnel. Last week, after a 7.4-magnitude earthquake off Taiwan triggered a tsunami alert for Okinawa, the Japan Air Self-Defense Force’s Naha Air Base sprang into action.
Situated on the low-lying southwestern coast of the island, the Naha Air Base swiftly moved a dozen F-15J fighter jets to a two-lane road on higher ground. This strategic relocation was a precautionary measure to protect the valuable aircraft from potential damage.
Images shared on social media depicted a remarkable sight - a convoy of F-15J jets lining up along the road, showcasing the military's readiness to respond to emergencies. Despite the jets' impressive size and weight, the relocation process was completed in just 15 to 20 minutes, a testament to the base's preparedness and efficiency.
The F-15J fighter jets, known as the 'mainstay' of Japan's air force, are formidable machines with a top speed of 2.5 times the speed of sound. Each jet, valued at approximately $30 million, boasts a wingspan of 43 feet and a length of nearly 64 feet.
During the tsunami alert, aircraft tugs were utilized to move the jets, ensuring their safety and swift deployment if necessary. Fortunately, the tsunami warning was eventually lifted, allowing operations to resume as normal.
Meanwhile, Taiwan's Defense Ministry reported minor damage to eight of its warplanes, including scratches on six F-16s and two F-5s, caused by the earthquake. Despite the superficial damage, the ministry confirmed that the integrity of the aircraft was not compromised, and repairs were promptly carried out to maintain combat readiness.
The earthquake, the most powerful to hit Taiwan in 25 years, resulted in tragic consequences, with at least 13 fatalities and over 1,100 injuries. However, the swift response and preparedness demonstrated by both the Japanese and Taiwanese military forces underscore the importance of readiness in the face of unforeseen challenges.
