IHI Participating in Trinational Next-Generation Fighter Development Program
The government of Japan today announced that it will jointly develop a next-generation fighter with the United Kingdom and Italy. IHI Corporation has been an engine contractor for the next-generation fighter development effort that Japan’s Ministry of Defense launched in 2020. The company will draw on its experience and technological development achievements and the excellence of the British and Italian aerospace industries in this joint development program, playing a vital role by stepping up collaboration with the public and private sectors.
Engines are pivotal to the performance and availability of fighter jets. An engine production and technological infrastructure could become a key national security tool with far-reaching effects on other industries.
Over the years, IHI has domestically produced fighter and other aero engines under license. It has also provided logistical support for these offerings while developing a range of jet engines for Japan’s Ministry of Defense. The company has developed engine technologies for future fighter aircraft as a ministry contractor, including for the XF9-1 engine*, and through in-house research. IHI has thereby endeavored to build a manufacturing and technology infrastructure that empowers it to develop fighter aircraft engines.
IHI is helping reinforce Japan’s defense industry infrastructure by stepping up digital transformation efforts and transferring defense equipment to partner nations. The company will benefit its other operations by cultivating people who can drive global business success while developing highly talented engineers.
*The XF9-1 is a prototype engine capable of 15 metric tons of thrust that IHI delivered to the Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency of Japan’s Ministry of Defense.
Concept images of Japan’s next-generation fighter (courtesy of Japan Ministry of Defense)