North Wind 26: Strengthening U.S.-Japan Interoperability Through Joint Winter Training

Camp Makomanai, Hokkaido, Japan – U.S. Army training continues despite challenging winter conditions, emphasizing the importance of interoperability and Soldier readiness. The 11th Airborne Division, known as the “Arctic Angels,” is currently participating in North Wind 26, a joint winter field exercise with the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF). The exercise, running from January 20 to February 3, 2026, focuses on enhancing tactical techniques and procedures for operating in extreme cold-weather environments and bolstering the alliance between the two nations.

Enhancing Cold-Weather Capabilities

North Wind 26 provides a crucial opportunity for U.S. And Japanese forces to refine their skills in cold-weather operations. Training events have taken place at Camp Makomanai, Camp Okadama, and Hokudai-en, encompassing a range of activities including fire support operations, helicopter loading procedures (both hot and cold loading), squad movement drills, and radio signaling. These exercises allow paratroopers to exchange techniques and lessons learned with their JGSDF counterparts, fostering mutual understanding and improving combined effectiveness.

Building Stronger Partnerships

Beyond tactical proficiency, North Wind 26 prioritizes building and maintaining a strong partnership between the U.S. Army and the JGSDF. Team-building activities, such as a friendly ski competition, are integral to strengthening trust and camaraderie. Prior to the competition, JGSDF members provided ski lessons to participants, who were then organized into multinational teams.

Aerial Insertion Training

As part of the exercise, U.S. Army scouts assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 509th Infantry Regiment, 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division, conducted aerial insertion training on January 28, 2026. This involved utilizing both Sikorsky UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters and Japanese Bell UH-1 Iroquois helicopters to simulate real-world deployment scenarios. Watch the aerial insertion training exercise here.

Strategic Importance of the Exercise

North Wind 26 serves a broader strategic purpose: enhancing Soldier readiness, maintaining interoperability, and reinforcing the enduring alliance between the United States and Japan. The exercise demonstrates the commitment of both nations to regional stability and security. Read more about North Wind 26 on DVIDS. The U.S. Air Force also reported on the interoperability benefits of the exercise.

Key Takeaways

• North Wind 26 is a bilateral training exercise between the U.S. Army and the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force.
• The exercise focuses on enhancing cold-weather operational capabilities and interoperability.
• Training activities include fire support, helicopter operations, and squad movement drills.
• Team-building events strengthen the U.S.-Japan alliance.
• The exercise runs from January 20 to February 3, 2026.