The U.S. Department of State has authorized the Japanese government’s request to acquire aerial refueling aircraft and related equipment under the Foreign Military Sales program.
The contract, with an estimated value of $4.1 billion, will see Japan acquire several major defense equipment:
- up to nine KC-46A aircraft,
- up to 18 PW4062 turbofan engines,
- up to 16 AN/ALR-69A radar warning receivers,
- up to 33 Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasure Guardian Laser Turret Assemblies and
- up to 18 LAIRCM system processor replacements.
The proposed purchase includes non-MDE items, including cartridge-actuated devices and propellent-actuated devices, electronic warfare database support, and minor modifications and maintenance support.
Boeing, Pratt & Whitney Military Engines, RTX and Northrop Grumman are the primary contractors for the deal.
Described as a “game changer” by Boeing, the KC-46A aircraft was designed for a full spectrum of refueling missions. It is compatible with several aircraft, including the B-52, F-16 and V-22.
Japan aims to improve its aerial refueling capability and passenger transport operations with the acquisition, making the Japan Self-Defense Forces capable of addressing existing and future threats in the region. The latest potential FMS deal comes just less than two weeks after it received U.S. approval to acquire Aegis-class destroyer follow-on technical support and related equipment.