The island houses some 40,000 U.S. troops and 60 military bases including the Kadena base with two 4,000m-long runways, the largest U.S. air force base in the Far East. Stationed on Kadena are tactical, strategic, naval and marine air forces.

The U.S., which used Okinawa as operation, supply and logistics bases in the Korean war (1950-1953), is increasing the island's military significance and function.

From the 1960s the Japanese government has considered the U.S. Okinawa bases as a deterrent for coping with emergency on the Korean peninsula. This fact was opened to the public recently through a diplomatic document.

The Okinawa-based U.S. forces are directing the spearhead of attack to the Korean peninsula.

The main force is U.S. Marines numbering some 15,000. They have participated in almost joint military exercises between the U.S. and Japan, and between the U.S. and south Korea.

The U.S. regards Okinawa as frontline bases in Korea strategy.

Another main force is the 18th flying corps.

Kadena-based RC-135, EP-3, WC-135W and U-2 reconnaissance planes are keeping a close eye on the Korean peninsula.