Japan chooses US partner to assist with F-2 successor
Given the technological challenges associated with developing a stealth fighter, Japan has enlisted the help of a US aerospace OEM.
Defence Minister Nobuo Kishi announced on 12 December that the Japanese MoD had chosen Lockheed Martin as technical partner for development of the successor to the Japan Air Self-Defense Force’s (JASDF) F-2 fighter.
The MoD will allocate JPY57.6 billion ($556 million) for the F-X fighter's development costs in the FY2021 budget. It will be a hugely expensive development project, though, with a cost estimate exceeding JPY2 trillion.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries is the prime integrator, with IHI responsible for the engine and Subaru for the airframe. Meanwhile, Toshiba and Fujitsu will develop the radar, and Mitsubishi Electric will create
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![How uncrewed rotary platforms are shaping approaches to contested logistics]()
How uncrewed rotary platforms are shaping approaches to contested logistics
Defence industry primes are working on an array of different platforms to meet the growing need for rotary uncrewed aerial vehicles to carry out future logistics missions.
-
![Eastern European helicopter modernisation could open doors for Western manufacturers]()
Eastern European helicopter modernisation could open doors for Western manufacturers
With some Eastern European countries already upgrading their helicopter fleets to incorporate Western technology, the region presents potential future opportunities for defence companies.
-
![UK E-7 Wedgetail delay down to a “technology issue”, as MoD grapples with slipping timelines]()
UK E-7 Wedgetail delay down to a “technology issue”, as MoD grapples with slipping timelines
The first of three E-7 Wedgetail aircraft, originally ordered in 2019, is now expected to be delivered to the RAF this year after multiple “difficulties”.
-
![Forecast $21.9 billion light attack and trainer opportunities up for grabs as Leonardo lines up M-346]()
Forecast $21.9 billion light attack and trainer opportunities up for grabs as Leonardo lines up M-346
The M-346 stands as a potential contender for various countries facing impending capability gaps due to ageing trainer aircraft, while it could also be selected as a cost-effective light fighter aircraft.
-
![US Air Force seeks capabilities to improve C3 for aircraft fleet and warfighters]()
US Air Force seeks capabilities to improve C3 for aircraft fleet and warfighters
The USAF published RFIs for enhancing its C3 capabilities after losing, in Operation Epic Fury, four aircraft in non-confrontational, unclear situations that could have been related to command, control and communication failures.
