A recent controversy has called into question the agreement that decides who prosecutes U.S. troops in Japan. Japan on Wednesday will formally approve U.S. plans for a new Marine quick-reaction force on Okinawa. The Air Force's decision to temporarily rotate fighters into Kadena to take the place of permanently-stationed F-15s drew objections from some Republicans. Four Republicans are expressing concern about the Air Force’s decision to replace permanent F-15 squadrons in Okinawa with rotational forces. Fostering good relations with host communities is especially important in Okinawa due to its heavy U.S. military presence and related historical issues. But the longer-term plans for fighters at Kadena are not yet set. The latest lawsuit is part of a winding legal battle to fight the relocation of Marine Corps Air Station Futenma. A new task force will streamline command and control of amphibious and crisis response elements in the Indo-Pacific. The plan to move Marine Corps Air Station Futenma from a crowded neighborhood to a less populated area already has been delayed for years. The governor of Okinawa is calling for further reduction of the U.S. military presence there amid growing fear of regional military tension. Load More