Japan’s F-35s will confer air superiority

Subject

Japan's procurement of F-35 fighter jets from the United States.

Significance

Japan is to purchase 105 additional F-35 stealth fighter aircraft from the United States, giving it the world’s second-largest fleet.

Impacts

• Deployment of F-35s sends China a strong message that Japan will not be coerced by its neighbour’s growing maritime power.
• Buying the aircraft will help Tokyo cultivate Washington at a time of heightened tension over trade.
• There is a risk that Japan’s defence industry might lose some capabilities since it will not produce the planes itself.