2031 (full-scale production planned)[1] The Mitsubishi F-X (unofficially called F-3) is a sixth-generation stealth fighter in development for the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF).

[6] The F-X program began when the United States banned exports of the Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor as part of the 1997 Obey amendment in order to safeguard its technology.

Between December 2009 and August 2010, the Ministry of Defense (MoD) conducted a study of developing a future fighter jet to replace the F-2.

[32] Lockheed Martin's hybridized stealth fighter was also met with doubt due to its expensive price, as well as uncertainties that the U.S. would allow the sale given the export ban on the F-22.

[38] In early February 2019, the MoD announced that a 'Japan-led' Future Fighter program will be initiated, with collaboration with foreign defense contractors still being an option.

The announcement further enforces that plans to develop or locally produce existing foreign-made fighter jets has been ruled out.

However, the decision did not rule out the possibility of international collaboration; as Lockheed Martin, Boeing, Northrop Grumman and BAE Systems are still listed as potential partners.

[49] As of July 2020[update], the MoD expects production of the first fighter prototype to begin in 2024, with flight tests starting in 2028.

[50] On 9 December 2022, the governments of Japan, the United Kingdom, and Italy jointly announced that they would develop and deploy a common fighter jet, merging their previously separate sixth-generation projects into: Global Combat Air Program.

By the Japanese MoD's own terminology, the technology and capabilities the F-X possesses will classify it as a sixth generation fighter jet.

[51] Defense Minister Taro Kono has stated that the F-X will possess strong network capabilities and will carry more missiles than the F-35.

According to the MoD's evaluation, the reason for selecting electric actuators over hydraulic systems is because of the complexity of designing the interior of the stealth fighter.

Heat shield technology is placed around the engines to allow aluminum alloys and carbon-fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) to be applied to reduce weight.

[25][61] To minimize its radar cross section, F-X physical design features serpentine air-ducts and an internal weapons bay.

According to results of tests conducted, the RCS reduction done from the absorbers has the equivalent effect of reducing detection range from radar threats by about half.

[64] The metamaterials are applied on the pulse doppler system as part of a radio wave reflection control technology on board the F-X.

[69] The engines incorporate three dimensional thrust vector nozzles to allow the aircraft to achieve high maneuverability and improve stealth capabilities.

[18] The microwave weapon is activated from the stealth fighter's AESA radar through the use of electron tube amplifiers capable of high efficiency and miniaturization.

There are two versions of the drone: one that is a sensor carrier and scouts for targets, and another that fires munitions and directs incoming missiles away from the parent aircraft.

[77][78][79] In the aftermath following World War II, Japan's defense and aerospace sector was crushed, forcing the nation to enter a long period of rebuilding.

First conceived as a 'pure' Japanese fighter, the F-2 was to incorporate the latest technology Japan had to offer and become a sort of spiritual successor to the famous Mitsubishi A6M Zero.

However, the decision to joint-develop the aircraft with the US was later chosen due to a combination of US political pressure and the heavy undertaking of producing a fighter domestically.

Combined with the delays and lack of profit and growth obtained for Japan's domestic industries, the F-2 went on to become an expensive, controversial fighter.

Furthermore, Japanese lawmakers are adamant that domestic companies should lead the project to secure profit and preserve the defense industry.

[80] According to Gregg Rubinstein of Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, the US and Japan have differing approaches and priorities on joint-developing the stealth fighter.

[82] In mid-April 2019, several reports indicated that the U.S. was willing to disclose portions of the F-35's software to Japan in exchange for joint development on the F-X fighter.

[84][85][86] According to the Financial Times, there were concerns among US officials that Japan would select BAE Systems as its international partner over US defense contractors.

There were concerns that selecting a British fighter jet would increase interoperability difficulties between it and the US military and US-made aircraft in Japan, thus complicating joint operations.

[90] While ATLA responded by stating that US and UK discussions were still ongoing, the report suggested that the US still has a strong influence over Japan because of their alliance.

[79] Within East Asia, the F-X allows Japan to not lag behind China and Russian stealth fighter production.