Takasaki Airfield

Military Conversion

The site of the former Takasaki Airfield was officially transferred to the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) in 1959 and completely redeveloped. It is now the active JGSDF Camp Somagahara (相馬原駐屯地), which serves as the headquarters for the JGSDF 12th Brigade. The original large runways were dismantled, and the facility now operates as a military base with a heliport, known as JGSDF Somagahara Heliport (ICAO: RJTS). This heliport is actively used by military helicopters, such as the CH-47J/JA Chinook of the 12th Helicopter Unit.

Takasaki Airfield was constructed by the Imperial Japanese Army during World War II, with completion around 1944. Its primary purpose was to serve as a training base for army pilots. In the final, desperate stages of the war, its role became more somber and significant as it was used as a sortie base for Kamikaze (Special Attack) units, including the 49th and 50th Shinbu Squadrons. Following Japan's surrender in August 1945, the airfield ceased its original operations and was occupied by Allied forces. The identifier 'JP-2132' is a non-official code, likely originating from flight simulator scenery databases to mark the historical location.

None. The site is a major, active, and strategically important military installation for the Japan Ground Self-Defense Force. There are no plans, discussions, or prospects for converting it back into a civilian or public-use airport.