V-22s in Japan

The Defense Department announced overnight that it had reached an agreement with the Japanese government that will permit the V-22 Osprey to commence flight operations in Japan.

“This agreement was the result of a deep partnership and thorough process that allowed both sides to reconfirm the safety of the aircraft. It is a testament to the strength and maturity of our alliance, which remains the cornerstone for peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific region,” Pentagon Press Secretary George Little said.

Defense Secretary Leon Panetta, he added, who "has placed a high priority on reaching this agreement," has "directed numerous senior officials at the Department of Defense to work on this issue over the past several months, and raised the issue in multiple discussions with Foreign Minister Gemba and Defense Minister Morimoto, including earlier this week."