Japanese pilots trained by USA, in front of Sabrejet plane
Mar. 03, 1956 - Japan's Air Force Displays Might. The growing Japan Air Defence Force displayed its might recently in the first official flights of its pilots in F-86 Sabre-jets. it marked the emergence of Japan as a potent force in modern military aviation. Seven American-trained Japanese jet pilots took part in the first official flights in Sabrejets, at Tsuiki Air Base, in Kyushu, Southern Japan. The jet fighters have been handed over to the Japan Air Defence Force recently by the United States. Keystone Photo Shows:- Four of the American-trained Japanese jet pilots posed in front of a F-36 modern jet fighter plane. They are all aces of the defunct Japanese Air Force of World War II. (L-R): Captain Shiro Sakai; Lieutenant Colonel Masanobu Ihisuki; Lieutenant Colonel Tsurayuki Ishikawa and Lieutenant Colonel Ryogoro Suzuki
