Japanese F-3 to be jointly developed with the UK
A concept of the F-3, also known as the F-X, currently under development for the JASDF. (Japanese MoD)
Japan looks set to turn to the UK, instead of the US, for partnership help in developing its future F-3 fighter.
The next fighter for the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF), the F-3, will be jointly developed with the UK, according to reports in Japan on 14 May.
F-3 development should have proceeded jointly via Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) and Lockheed Martin, with the latter supporting integration of various systems.
However, technical assistance by Lockheed Martin is proving challenging to coordinate due to restrictions on disclosing classified information.
Instead, MHI and BAE Systems now plan to develop the airframe and EW system jointly, and IHI and Rolls-Royce will jointly develop the F-3’s engine. A formal agreement on such joint development
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![Italy moves to procure third batch of 29 AW249 helicopters]()
Italy moves to procure third batch of 29 AW249 helicopters
The €1.22 billion (US$1.41 billion) follow-on order for the additional helicopters will complement the 19 AW249 already ordered by Italy.
-
![October Drone Digest: Growing desire for CCAs and new VTOL technology unveiled]()
October Drone Digest: Growing desire for CCAs and new VTOL technology unveiled
During October 2025, several countries and organisations signalled their intention to acquire loyal wingman uncrewed aircraft systems — designated by the US Air Force as Collaborative Combat Aircraft — or to study the capability further, while various new uncrewed helicopters were showcased.
-
![Airbus to position Eurofighter Typhoon for Portugal’s F-16 replacement requirement]()
Airbus to position Eurofighter Typhoon for Portugal’s F-16 replacement requirement
The MoU with AED Cluster Portugal will see the two organisations work together on studies to create a pitch to replace the country’s current F-16 fleet.
-
![PGZ and Anduril to work on Polish variant of Barracuda-500M missile]()
PGZ and Anduril to work on Polish variant of Barracuda-500M missile
The memorandum of understanding signed also included a wider strategic plan to co-develop autonomous air systems for the Polish Armed Forces.
