noun
A rank in the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, equivalent to major general in many air forces. Used as a title before a name, e.g., 空将補の田中.
彼は昨年、空将補に昇進した。
He was promoted to major general last year.
空将補の山本氏が式典に出席
Major General Yamamoto attended the ceremony.
海将補 is the equivalent rank in the JMSDF (Maritime Self-Defense Force), corresponding to rear admiral.
Compound of 空 (air) + 将補 (general officer rank). 将補 is a JSDF-specific term combining 将 (general) and 補 (assistant/deputy), indicating a rank just below full general.