The Japanese parliament on Tuesday passed a measure that would extend the use of Japan Air Defense Force assets to haul cargo and personnel in Iraq, reports Reuters news service. Japanese military air elements have aided coalition operations in Iraq since December 2003, and they have taken over some airlift operations in the Pacific to free USAF airlifters for Southwest Asia duty.
Lt. Gen. Jason T. Hinds took charge of NATO Allied Air Command and U.S. Air Forces in Europe-Air Forces Africa on Oct. 31, one day after being confirmed for the post by the Senate.
