Fuchu Air Base

Ever wonder what secrets lie hidden beneath the roar of jets? We stand before Fuchu Air Base, a place where history has left its indelible mark. Fuchu Air Base hasn’t always been the home of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force. Originally, from 1940 to 1945, it served as a base for the Imperial Japanese Army. After Japan’s surrender, the US forces occupied the base, transforming it into Fuchu Air Station. The transition wasn’t immediate. The Japan Self-Defense Force began operations at Fuchu Air Base in 1957. Interestingly, this base also held the distinction of being the first headquarters of U.S. Forces Japan, from 1957 to 1974. Later, the headquarters relocated to Yokota Air Base. In 1975, a significant portion of Fuchu Air Station was returned to the Japanese government. The USAF retained a small section for communication purposes. Parts of Fuchu Air Base were repurposed. Some land was transformed into a park and sporting grounds, while another area remains closed off, a silent testament to its past role in maintaining radio contact with Misawa Air Base. Fuchu Air Base currently houses the Air Support Command of the JASDF. It also accommodates the Air Traffic Control Service Group and the Air Weather Service Group. Near the main entrance, two retired jet fighters, a Lockheed F-104 Starfighter and a Mitsubishi F-1, stand as gatekeepers to a rich history. They remind us of the evolving role of this air base. So, as you look at Fuchu Air Base, remember the layers of history beneath your feet. From imperial army base to US air station, and finally to the home of the JASDF, Fuchu Air Base continues to write its story in the skies above Tokyo.