Japan is gearing up to design a new air-to-air missile for the next-generation fighter jets it is co-developing with Britain and Italy. The plan is to have these anti-air missiles equipped on the fighter jets upon their initial deployment in Japan by 2035, according to an insider familiar with the situation.
Graphic: Japan Ministry of Defense
A collaborative study involving Japan and Britain assessed the suitability of air-to-air missiles for the new fighter jets intended for Japan’s Air Self-Defense Force. The study revealed that an indigenous air-to-air missile could offer better performance at a more affordable cost compared to the European-developed air-to-air Meteor missile.
While Japan initially aims to employ domestically developed missiles for the new fighters, there are considerations for integrating missiles already in use by British and Italian warplanes to enhance the fighters’ capabilities in the future.
The collaboration on the joint fighter jet project, dubbed Global Combat Air Program (GCAP), was announced in December, bringing together Japan, Britain, and Italy. This marks the first time Japan has engaged in defense equipment development with a nation other than the United States.
Presently, the three nations are actively involved in formulating the basic design of the aircraft body and fine-tuning engine details. To expedite the development process, discussions are underway to establish a governing body responsible for implementing decisions by their respective defense authorities.
Japan’s objective is to replace around 90 aging F-2 fighters of the Air Self-Defense Force, set to start retiring in 2035, with the new fighter jets. Additionally, about 240 Eurofighter jets in Britain and Italy will be phased out and replaced.
The Meteor missile, a collaborative effort by six European nations including Britain and Italy, is currently used in Eurofighters and other aircraft. This missile is also being considered for potential deployment in the new fighter jets of Japan, Britain, and Italy.
In terms of electronic systems for the new fighters, a Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) C-2 transport aircraft will be modified to conduct flight tests for the new systems.
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