By Mikihiko Ueno

U.S. Forces Japan Deputy Commander Christopher Mahoney said on April 22, “We want to provide full support, if approved” for dual use of the Yokota base in conjunction with the 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games. He was speaking to media outlets including the Tokyo Shimbun at a press conference held at the Yokota base (straddling Fussa City and other municipalities).

“No decisions have been made about dual use,” said the deputy commander. “We are waiting for a specific request from the Japanese government through the U.S. Embassy.” He also said, “We are putting forward ideas to each other at the working level,” indicating coordination is underway between Japan and the U.S.

In order to increase the number of takeoffs and landings in Tokyo and adjacent prefectures, the Tokyo Metropolitan Government and private sector business organizations are calling for dual use of the Yokota base during the Olympics.