Japan could lose 144 fighter jets in Taiwan crisis: simulation

U.S.-Japanese alliance would prevent Chinese takeover but at a high cost

Two F-15 jets from the Japanese Self-Defense Force fly in formation with four U.S. Air Force F-16 fighters during a bilateral exercise. (Joint Staff of the Japanese Self-Defense Force via AP) © AP

RIEKO MIKI, Nikkei staff writer

February 24, 2023 05:13 JST

TOKYO -- If Japan and the U.S. were to become involved in a conflict between China and Taiwan, they would be able to prevent Beijing's takeover of the island, but at a heavy cost to their military personnel and equipment, think tank simulations show.

A tabletop wargame conducted by Japan's Sasakawa Peace Foundation showed Japan losing as many as 144 fighter jets, with Self-Defense Forces casualties reaching up to 2,500. The U.S. could lose up to 400 jets with over 10,000 soldiers killed or wounded. But China would fail to seize control of the island.