Due to potential delays in the development of the future sixth-generation fighter expected to emerge from the GCAP program, Japan is reportedly considering acquiring additional F-35 stealth fighter jets from the United States as a stopgap solution. These aircraft would serve to fill the gap in anticipation of the future replacement of the Mitsubishi F-2s operated by the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, a transition projected to begin after 2035. Meanwhile, the country continues to receive the fifth-generation fighters ordered under agreements signed in 2019, with the latest delivery taking place in early May.
Formalized in 2022, the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) is a joint initiative involving Japan (via Mitsubishi Heavy Industries), Italy (Leonardo), and the United Kingdom (BAE Systems), aimed at developing a next-generation fighter aircraft that will equip the air forces of the three partner nations. So far, only a conceptual design has been unveiled, presented at the Farnborough International Airshow. This design featured a larger wingspan than previous iterations and certain aerodynamic changes to meet Japanese requirements, which call for a larger platform to extend operational range.
However, according to sources, the project appears to be lagging behind due to a “lack of urgency” from the United Kingdom and Italy, which could delay its entry into service until 2040—five years later than originally scheduled. Recent reports suggest that Italy has accused the UK of withholding key technologies necessary for the aircraft’s development. Additionally, the potential entry of Saudi Arabia into the program—an interest expressed as early as 2023—is said to be primarily driven by Rome, seeking to expand its influence over decision-making within the consortium.
Looking ahead to the planned start of deliveries in 2035, the Royal Air Force and the Italian Air Force aim to retire their Eurofighter fleets—currently operating alongside F-35Bs—while Japan intends to phase out its Mitsubishi F-2s.
Given this context, and in light of the growing military advances of China and Russia in the region, Japan has been compelled to explore options to ensure it maintains sufficient fighter aircraft to preserve the operational capabilities of its Air Self-Defense Force during the F-2 replacement process. Nonetheless, a spokesperson for Japan’s Ministry of Defense Acquisition Agency stated that 2035 remains the target year for entry into service, with F-2 retirements beginning the same year. Some have also suggested that Japan might instead opt to extend the service life of the F-2 fleet through upgrades and a Mid-Life Update (MLU) program.
Within this framework, sources indicate that Japanese authorities are reviewing the possibility of purchasing additional fifth-generation F-35s from the United States. However, no specific number has been disclosed, as the plan remains under evaluation. It is worth noting that Japan is currently the largest foreign operator of the Lockheed Martin-built fighter, with a total of 147 units on order. Of that number, 43 F-35As have been delivered out of 105 planned, while the delivery of the first F-35B units—the short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) variant—out of a total of 42 intended for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force and its helicopter carriers, has experienced delays.
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