The Japanese destroyer Kaga begins its first mission as a light aircraft carrier as part of the Pacific Stellar 2025 exercise

The Japan Maritime Self—Defense Force (JMSDF - Japanese Navy) has reached an important milestone as the newly redesigned Izumo class multifunctional destroyer JS Kaga (DDH-184) begins its first operational mission as a light aircraft carrier. 

This deployment takes place during Pacific Stellar 2025, a major naval exercise that will last until February 18 in the Philippine Sea, where Kaga operates alongside the U.S. Navy's Carl Vinson Aircraft Carrier Strike Group (VINCSG) and the French Aircraft Carrier Strike Group (CSG). 

This event marks a turning point for Japan's naval capabilities, demonstrating its growing ability to project air power at sea and operate in joint carrier operations with key allies.