The 203rd Tactical Fighter Squadron (第203飛行隊 (dai-ni-hyaku-san-hikoutai)) is a squadron of the 2nd Air Wing of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) based at Chitose Air Base, in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan. It is equipped with Mitsubishi F-15J/DJ and Kawasaki T-4 aircraft.
History
The squadron was formed at Chitose Air Base at Hokkaido in June 1964 as part of the 2nd Air Wing. It was the third of the JASDF's F-104 units to form. It took over Quick Reaction Alert duties from the North American F-86D Sabre-equipped 103rd Squadron.
On March 24, 1984, the squadron updated from the F-104 to the F-15J/DJ.
Tail markings
The squadron's aircraft have a stylized 203 with a red line, and a bear resembling a panda.
Aircraft operated
Fighter aircraft
- Lockheed F-104J/DJ Starfighter (1964-1983)
- Mitsubishi F-15J (1983-present)
Liaison aircraft
- Lockheed T-33A (1964-1992)
- Kawasaki T-4 (1992-present)
In popular culture
The squadron appeared in the 1990 film Best Guy.
See also
- Fighter units of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force
References
