A Japanese Air Self Defense Force F-15J performing at an air show in Japan on Nov. 29 lost a section of its tail shortly after takeoff, prompting the JASDF to ground its fleet of F-15J fighters pending inspections, reports The Mainichi Daily News. The newspaper reported that the 2.4-meter-long fragment from the left tail plane fragmented into seven pieces. In addition to the F-15, JASDF flies an even older F-4 that, at one time, it had hoped to replace with an export version of USAF’s new F-22 air dominance fighter. However, the Pentagon refused Congressional prodding to consider an export F-22 and with the end of the Raptor production line in sight, Japan is considering buying F-35 strike fighters instead.
Competitors Not Picked for CCA Look Forward to Increment 2
April 25, 2024
While none of the major aircraft contractors were selected to develop the Collaborative Combat Aircraft, all three say they are seeking further autonomous aircraft work for the Navy, foreign partners, or in the classified arena, and maybe future versions of the CCA itself.