Japan Builds A Mini Carrier Exclusively For Operate F-35B Stealth Fighters

Defense News ,Japan :- In a strategic move aimed at countering China influence and enhancing its capabilities for potential island-hopping amphibious warfare, the Japanese Maritime Defence Force has introduced the JS Kaga. This newly retrofitted destroyer-turned-amphibious assault ship is equipped with the F-35B, symbolizing Japan commitment to projecting 5th-generation air power at sea. A recent article by Warrior delves into the emergence of Japan mini-carrier, shedding light on the operational concepts driving its design.

The JS Kaga, accompanied by Japan substantial F-35 purchase, stands as a pivotal component of the country largest defense budget since World War Two. Notably, Japan has emerged as the largest international customer for the F-35B platform.

The F-35B boasts impressive specifications, including a top speed of Mach 1.6, an after-burning thrust of 43,000 lbs, and a radar signature of 0.0015m2 at its stealthiest. While comparisons to faster aircraft like the F-16 may arise, the F-35 excels in various metrics, establishing its supremacy as a multi-role fighter.

Drawing distinctions between the F-22 and the F-35 is crucial, as each serves a distinct purpose. The F-22, designed for air-to-air combat to secure and maintain air superiority, holds the title of the stealthiest aircraft in the U.S. arsenal. However, the F-35 versatility makes it the preferred choice for a range of functionalities beyond air-to-air combat.

In the context of establishing no-fly zones and engaging beyond-visual-range targets, the F-22 proves invaluable. However, the F-35 cost-effectiveness, coupled with its capacity to outperform other multi-role fighters like the F-16 and F/A-18E/F, positions it as the ideal choice for diverse mission requirements. The F-35 per-unit production cost, approximately $70 million, stands in stark contrast to the F-22 $143 million "fly-away" cost.

Japan strategic move to embrace the F-35 as a universal, multi-role fighter aligns with the goal of operating a singular backbone across service branches. This approach replaces the need for three distinct aircraft, such as the F/A-18E/F, F-16, and A-10, streamlining efficiency and enhancing performance.

Comparatively, the F-35 outshines the F-16 and F/A-18E/F in terms of combat range, internal fuel capacity, and overall capabilities. While the F-16 and F/A-18E/F have their strengths, such as cost-effectiveness or aircraft carrier compatibility, they fall short when faced with the F-35 superior range, endurance, and mission versatility.

Japan investment in the JS Kaga and the F-35B underscores a strategic shift, emphasizing the importance of advanced amphibious capabilities and 5th-generation air power projection in the evolving geopolitical landscape.