MILITARY
Japan mulls deploying F-35 jets on helicopter carriers
November 29, 2018 - Japan is looking to introduce its first aircraft carriers since World War II, in a move seen as a major departure from the country’s defence-oriented policy amid growing concerns over China’s naval expansion.
Japanese Defence Minister Takeshi Iwaya said that Tokyo is considering buying the U.S.-made F-35B short take-off and vertical landing (STOVL) stealth fighter, and converting its two Izumo-class helicopter carriers to facilitate F-35B operations, according to Jane’s Defence Weekly.
Separately, the Nikkei business newspaper reported that the government is preparing to order another 100 F-35s from the U.S. to replace some of its ageing F-15 fighters, adding to the 42 F-35A jets already planned. The additional 100 aircraft would include both F-35As and F-35Bs.
- Japan considers procuring F-35B for its Izumo-class helicopter carriers (IHS Jane’s)
- Izumo-Class Helicopter Destroyer (Naval Technology)
- Japan Clears Way for First Aircraft Carriers in 70 Years (Popular Mechanics)
- DDH-183 Izumo (Global Security)
- Japan to order 100 more F-35 fighters from US (Nikkei Asian Review)