Japan’s Air Self-Defense Force conducted its first aerial refueling support for a South Korean military aircraft at Naha Air Base in Okinawa Prefecture on January 28.

The JASDF provided refueling support to the South Korean Air Force's aerobatic team, the “Black Eagles,” which stopped at Naha Air Base en route to Saudi Arabia.

Japan’s first refueling support to a South Korean military aircraft comes after the two countries vowed to reinforce ties earlier this month amid growing geopolitical risks.

Members of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force's “Blue Impulse” aerobatic team engaged in interaction with the Korean team as well.

Refueling support for the Black Eagles had also been scheduled in November 2025, but it was canceled after it was discovered the aircraft had flown near Takeshima.

Japan’s Ministry of Defense hopes this refueling will serve as an opportunity to promote defense exchanges and strengthen deterrence.