SEMPER FLOSSI
The U.S. Marines are reducing their presence on Okinawa as part of a longstanding agreement between Washington and Tokyo to reduce the American military presence on the island, which has existed since World War II.
Under this agreement, 9,000 Marines—nearly half the current force—are slated to relocate. However, the process is already 20 years behind schedule and may take another decade to complete, as the relocation depends on constructing replacement bases.
The United States maintains a significant military presence in Okinawa, Japan, as part of the U.S.-Japan security alliance. Although it comprises less than 1% of Japan's total land area, Okinawa hosts approximately 70% of U.S. military bases in Japan.
Personnel and Facilities: Okinawa is home to about 26,000 U.S. military personnel, their families and civilian employees. The island houses 13 U.S. military bases, including major installations such as Kadena Air Base, Marine Corps Air Station Futenma, and several Army and Navy facilities.
Strategic Importance: The bases on Okinawa are pivotal for regional security and serve as strategic points for U.S. military operations in the Indo-Pacific. They facilitate rapid deployment and response capabilities across Asia.
Community Impact: The concentration of U.S. bases has led to ongoing discussions about the social, environmental, and economic effects on the local population. Issues such as noise, pollution, and land use have been disputed.
Troop Relocation: In December 2024, the U.S. relocated some Marines from Okinawa to Guam. This move is part of a long-standing agreement to reduce the American military footprint on Okinawa. The initial phase involved transferring 100 Marines, with plans to relocate approximately 4,000.
Enhanced U.S.-Japan Cooperation: In response to regional security challenges, the U.S. and Japan have strengthened their military alliance. This includes establishing a joint command center to improve operational coordination and address potential threats from neighboring countries.
