InsideJapan News Network

The US is to deploy a dozen F-22 stealth fighter jets to Okinawa in Japan next year, it has been reported.

It is believed the aircraft will fly from Langley Air Force Case in Virginia and be based at Kadena Air Base.

Japan's air force said in a statement: "These deployments underscore the US commitment to Japan as a vital regional partner and signal US resolve to ensure stability and security throughout the Pacific region."

Recently, the Pentagon decided to scrap a multi-million dollar plan put forward by Congress to buy 20 more F-22 stealth jets.

The new plan allows for the Obama administration to decide whether or not to purchase more aircraft, reports the International Herald Tribune.

Earlier this month, Japan ended its support mission in Iraq.

Sergeant Major Takeshi Yamada, Japan's operations coordinator, commented: "This was a very valuable experience."