Sayonara F-22

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Japan has apparently officially abandoned its pursuit of the F-22 in favor of the F-35 as it considers a platform to recapitalize it aging fighter fleet. Speaking to reporters Tuesday in Washington, D.C., Air Force Secretary Michael Donley said the Asian ally is now “focused on F-35,” based on his interactions over the past half year or so with the Japanese air chief. Japanese officials last year expressed interest in acquiring an export version of the F-22, but met Pentagon resistance and faced the standing US law banning F-22 overseas sales. Donley said the Pentagon has not softened its opposition, explaining that the F-22 has characteristics “worth protecting” and “proprietary to the United States.” Plus, the F-22, unlike the F-35, was not designed with export in mind. “Just the concept of an exportable F-22 involves a substantial redesign of the airplane,” imposing substantial costs, he said.

Audio of this article is brought to you by the Air & Space Forces Association, honoring and supporting our Airmen, Guardians, and their families. Find out more at afa.org