2 posts tagged “f-22”

F-22A Raptors left for the states from Kadena AB, Okinawa earlier today.

JASDF (Japan Air Self Defence Force) has been planning to replace their old F-4EJ(mod)s Phantom to new ones, F-22A is one of their choices for "FX (Fighter-X, which means next main fighter jet)" among others, such as Eurofighter Typhoon, Dassault Rafale, F-35 Lightning II, F/A-18 Hornet (probably its latest version F/A-18E/F Super Hornet) and F-15FX (rumors say that it must be modified F-15E Strike Eagle).

With political reasons, Japan will purchase American made fighters again I think.  Boeing has been trying to sell their F-15FX, but it's slightly older now if it's compared to the other latest fighter planes.  And F-35 can carry only 2 air-to-air missiles if it's in stealth mode, wouldn't be enough for air defense role.  F-22A must be a champion and the best choice, but can't carry "Japan made" latest air-to-air missiles (Mitsubishi is the manufacturer), and its price is way too far expensive.

After the WWII, GHQ (General Headquarters of allied forces in Japan, led by Douglas MacArthur) abandoned all spec sheets, blue prints and such at research facilities for aircrafts, and banned any activity for researching and manufacturing aircrafts by Japanese in Japan while they were about to prohibit also Hiragana, Katakana and Kanjis because they thought Japan went to the war in the way of thinking they never understand, and thoughts come from "incomprehensible language and letters."

I believe Japanese aero industry would grow and much more bigger today if they didn't do that.  Besides, almost 30% of Boeing's latest passenger jetplane is manufactured by Japanese companies now.  I wonder when will I be able to see Japan made fighterjet again.

Well I hate wars, I just like weapons and such because of their styles and designs.

Functions always bring fashion...