The United States has deployed advanced F-35 fighter jets to South Korea to participate in the ongoing Ulchi Freedom Shield (UFS) drills, a key summertime combined exercise between the two allies, the United States Forces Korea (USFK) confirmed Monday.

The temporary deployment includes around 10 aircraft, comprising both the F-35A, operated by the US Air Force, and the F-35B, operated by the US Marine Corps. They are stationed at Kunsan Air Base, where they will conduct joint training missions with South Korean forces until the exercise concludes on Thursday.

The drills are focused on defensive counterair maneuvers, enhancing interoperability, and strengthening joint combat readiness to deter potential regional threats. Military officials emphasized that integrating these fifth-generation fighter jets is intended to reinforce the allies’ combined defense posture.

The F-35 variants offer complementary capabilities. The F-35A is optimized for long-range operations and strike missions from traditional runways, while the F-35B can conduct short takeoffs and vertical landings, enabling flexible deployments from ships or remote bases.

USFK Commander General Xavier Brunson has previously highlighted the importance of rotational deployments of advanced aircraft to address capability gaps created by the relocation of US Patriot missile batteries to the Middle East. He stressed that “capabilities” should take priority over “numbers” in determining future force posture.

While speculation continues about possible permanent or regular rotational deployment of F-35 jets to South Korea, the USFK stated that such decisions are still under review. Any adjustments, the official added, would be announced through appropriate channels.

The annual Ulchi Freedom Shield exercise, running for 11 days, underscores the allies’ commitment to strengthening deterrence amid evolving regional security challenges.