Japanese defense officials are beginning to grow wobbly about an early decision on the F-X because it appears the F-22 will stay in production, and studies are underway to determine what is needed for an export version of the Raptor. Japanese air force officials told Aviation Week & Space Technology they need F-22's speed and altitude in order to cover the western approaches to Japan. Japan has only one runway capable of handling fighters and that is in Naha, Okinawa.
展开▼
