The Mitsubishi F-2 is a support jet fighter operated by the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF). It comes in two variants: the single-seat A type and the two-seat B type, with the latter primarily used for training and education.
The JASDF has traditionally relied on the F-15J interceptor to counter threats from enemy fighters and bombers, and the F-1 support fighter to defend against threats from ships and tanks. However, the aging F-1 has begun to be retired. As its successor, the F-2 was jointly developed by Japan and the United States.
Originally designated FS-X during development, the F-2 is based on the F-16 and incorporates cutting-edge modern technology. Its notable design features include a larger fuselage and wings compared to the F-16, an enlarged radome to house a new radar system, and a three-piece canopy designed to mitigate bird strikes during low-altitude flight. Various parts of the airframe, including the wings, use Japan’s world-class carbon composite materials, helping reduce overall weight.
Additionally, the F-2 incorporates CCV (Control Configured Vehicle) technology based on experimental results from the T-2CCV aircraft. It is the first JASDF aircraft to adopt a fly-by-wire side-stick control system, offering both safety and excellent flight performance.
The aircraft is equipped with 11 weapon stations across the wings and fuselage, capable of carrying air-to-air missiles, anti-ship missiles (such as the domestically produced ASM-2), various bombs, and external fuel tanks.
Deployment began in April 2001 with the 3rd Tactical Fighter Squadron at Misawa Air Base. Going forward, the F-2 will replace remaining F-1 and modified F-4EJ aircraft, working alongside the F-15J interceptor to defend Japan’s skies in the 21st century.
(Information as of the time of the kit’s release)
Specifications:
- Crew: 1 (F-2B: 2)
- Wingspan: 11.13 m (including wingtip launchers)
- Length: 15.52 m
- Height: 4.96 m
- Engine: General Electric F110-GE(IHI)-129 ×1
- Thrust: 17,000 lb (29,500 lb with afterburner)
- Takeoff Weight: 20,517 kg (with 2 AAMs, 4 ASMs, and two 600-gallon tanks)
- Fixed Armament: One M61A-1 20 mm Vulcan cannon
- Maximum Speed: Mach 2.0
- First Flight: October 7, 1995 (XF-2A prototype)