In an interview given on the 17^th October 2007, Shigeru Ishiba, the Japanese Defence Minister, hinted at the possibility of the national Air Self Defence Force acquiring Eurofighter Typhoons. Previously, Tokyo had been keen on the Lockheed Martin F-22 Raptor - the American-built 21^st century combat jet which has recently entered service with the United States Air Force.

The ultra hi-tech F-22 is stealthy beyond any other jet fighter, and a hugely desirable aircraft. However, the US government would prefer the technology remains within US hands, even given the close relationship it enjoys with Japan.

Recognising the F-22's potential, Mr Ishiba described it as "an exceptional aircraft". Despite this, he added: "...we at the Defence Ministry have not decided that it is absolutely necessary for Japan."

Away from the Raptor, he said, the Typhoon was the strongest aircraft to opt for. Discussing the other modern-day fighters that could be in the fray, Mr Ishiba stated: "The French Rafale is difficult to use. We certainly wouldn't choose a Russian fighter plane. So I think it would be the Eurofighter Typhoon."

The Eurofighter Typhoon is currently in the service of the Royal Air Force, as well as those of Germany, Italy and Spain - the four countries within the consortium behind the type's development.

Mr Ishiba rejected claims that America's reluctance to provide the Japanese Air Self Defence Force with F-22s had any connection with a leak of classified data concerned with a ballistic missile defence system - in which programme the US and Japan are collaborating. However, he emphasised the need for Tokyo to make improvements to how it handles information of a confidential nature.

A scandal broke out earlier in 2007 when it was claimed servicemen in the Japanese Navy leaked classified data regarding the Aegis radar. "It is a fact that Aegis information was leaked", said Mr Ishiba. "So I feel strongly that Japan's information management system is not good enough."

The Japanese Air Self Defence Force is comprised, in the main, of a mixture of US and home-grown aircraft. Within its fighter inventory, a large number of American F-4 Phantoms (in JASDF service - F-4EJs)and F-15 Eagles (F-15Js) remain in service.

Source - Armed Forces International's Aviation Expert

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