Japan explores missile launching from cargo planes
Rapid Dragon pictured during a USAF test. (Photo: US DoD)
Japan is considering capabilities to enable launching missiles from cargo planes, to diversify its launch platform options.
The Japan Self-Defense Force (JSDF) could introduce the Rapid Dragon that the USAF is developing, in a move that would allow the C-2 cargo plane to launch missiles.
The JSDF is introducing stand-off missile capabilities such as the enhanced Type 12 surface-to-ship missile (12SSM), hypersonic glide vehicle, hypersonic cruise missile and Tomahawk Block V cruise missile.
F-2 and F-15J fighters, Aegis destroyers, submarines and Type 12 SSM launchers are used as launch platforms for stand-off missiles.
Adopting a Rapid Dragon-type system could see this
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
India fast-tracks helicopter procurement with dual RFIs for 276 platforms
India has issued urgent RFIs for more than 270 reconnaissance, surveillance and utility helicopters across its services, signalling a systemic overhaul of rotary-wing capabilities with a renewed emphasis on indigenous production and technology transfer.
-
US combat drone plan rushes forward with first flight and selection in FY2026
The US Department of Defence (DoD) previously selected Anduril Industries and General Atomics to develop production-representative prototypes under the Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) programme. A competitive Increment 1 production decision is expected in FY2026.
-
DSEI 2025: Saab unveils new CUAS missile solution to defeat UAS swarms
The Nimbrix missile has been developed and tested over the last year and is Saab’s latest cost-effective answer to help armed forces counteract escalating numbers of uncrewed aerial threats on the battlefield.