Key Facts
• April 12, 1996: Japan-US governments announce Futenma base return agreement.
• April 12, 2026: 30 years since the agreement.
• Relocation site: Henoko, Nago City; construction ongoing.
• Government targets construction completion after 2036.
• Over 70,000 piles driven into seabed to reinforce soft ground at Oura Bay.
• Construction progress approximately 10%.
• Return date of Futenma base remains unclear.
• Construction cost rose from initial 350 billion yen to about 930 billion yen.
• Mayor of Ginowan City expresses deep regret over delayed return, urges prompt full return.
Summary
It has been 30 years since the Japan-US governments agreed to return the US Futenma military base located in Ginowan City, Okinawa. The base’s relocation to Henoko in Nago City is underway, with piling work to stabilize the seabed progressing slowly, reaching only about 10% completion. The government plans to finish construction after 2036, but the exact date for the Futenma base’s return remains uncertain. Costs have nearly tripled from the original estimate of 350 billion yen to approximately 930 billion yen, with further increases expected. The strong opposition from Okinawa Prefecture continues to fuel conflict with the central government. Ginowan City’s mayor has publicly expressed deep regret over the ongoing delay and reiterated the demand for the base’s full and swift return.
