Japan is seeking to replace its Kawasaki T-4 intermediate jet trainers, which entered service in 1988 and are now considered unfit for transitioning pilots of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force to advanced fighters such as the F-35A and F-35B.
According to Defense News, several domestic and international firms presented trainer aircraft proposals at DSEI Japan 2025, held in Chiba from May 21 to 23. This followed a Japanese Ministry of Defense request for information issued in October 2024, submissions for which closed on May 8.
Boeing pitched its T-7A Red Hawk, which is also used by the U.S. Air Force. John Suding, Boeing executive director for defense and government services in East Asia, told Defense News about the similarities between the USAF and JASDF training needs, touting the T-7 as “a fantastic fit.”
Meanwhile, Leonardo presented its M-346 Block 20, a trainer with upgraded avionics and cockpit displays. Diego Siccardi, Leonardo campaign head for the Far East and Oceania, said some Japanese pilots already train on the M-346 in Italy’s International Flight Training School and are satisfied with the program. He also pointed to Japan’s defense ties with Europe under the Global Combat Air Programme.
Additionally, local manufacturer Mitsubishi Heavy Industries proposed a clean-sheet T-X design. Though still in early development, the twin-engine T-X will reportedly incorporate a similar layout to the T-4 and major upgrades in avionics, flight performance and simulation integration, covering both basic and advanced training requirements. Defense News reported that MHI officials envision the T-X replacing not only the T-4 but also the F-2B and F-15DJ trainers.
Japan is also modernizing its basic trainer fleet, in addition to its intermediate trainers. Earlier this year, Textron Aviation Defense confirmed plans to finalize a 2025 contract to supply the JASDF with its Beechcraft T-6 Texan II Integrated Training System, phasing out the force’s Fuji/Subaru T-7 trainers.