Japan's Next-Generation Fighter Jet Development Promoted Through Collaboration with the UK

Japanese Air Self-Defense Force 6th Generation Fighter Jet Concept

[Asia Economy Reporter Chunhee Lee] The Japanese Ministry of Defense has decided to jointly research and develop the next-generation fighter jet to be operated by the Air Self-Defense Force with the United Kingdom, Sankei Shimbun reported on the 14th.

The Ministry of Defense aims to deploy a next-generation fighter jet equipped with advanced network capabilities and stealth performance as a successor to the F2 fighter jet, which is expected to be retired around 2035. The joint development of the next-generation fighter jet between the UK and Japan is expected to be led by the UK's major defense company BAE Systems and Japan's Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and BAE Systems will participate in airframe development and mass production, while Japan's IHI and the UK's Rolls-Royce will collaborate on engine development and production.

Initially, the Ministry of Defense sought a method where Mitsubishi Heavy Industries would lead the development of the next-generation fighter jet with support from the US company Lockheed Martin, which had previously co-developed the F2. However, due to difficulties in coordination, the plan shifted to joint development with the UK, Sankei Shimbun explained.