F-35 oppdatering - AIN

March 23, 2018

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Japan To Ponder F-35B Buy; Korea’s First F-35A Takes Flight Japan’s ruling Liberal Democratic Party has presented a proposal at an internal national security panel that seeks to enhance the nation’s defenses in light of the growing tension in the region created by North Korea’s missile program and China’s expanding maritime presence. The purchase of F-35Bs, and a new multi-purpose aircraft carrier/hospital ship, are included. The plan is expected to be presented to parliament in late May. The purchase of the F-35B short takeoff/vertical landing version of the Joint Strike Fighter is a key element in the plan. Its STOVL capabilities would allow it to operate from both the new carrier and, potentially, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s Izumo-class “helicopter destroyer” multi-purpose ships, which are the largest vessels to be operated by the JMSDF in the post-war period. The F-35B would also be able to operate from many of Japan’s smaller islands. Read More