Japan appoints prime for new-generation fighter
Japan’s foremost fighter aerospace company has been awarded a contract to develop the JASDF’s new F-X fighter
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) has been selected to lead Japan’s effort to produce a sixth-generation fighter jet that is currently known under the appellation F-X. The Japanese MoD announced on 30 October that a contract had been signed.
MHI will act as prime for the expansive programme to replace approximately 90 F-2s in the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF). These twin-engine fighters are relatively large and able to carry a significant weapon payload to a large combat radius.
Details were sparse, with the MoD issuing a brief statement on its website. ‘We have signed a contract with Mitsubishi
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