In Service: 1971〜2021
Japan’s Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) operates some of the most advanced aircrafts like the F-35 stealth fighter, but it actually used the obsolete F-4 phantom jets until 2021.
These were upgraded versions call the F-4 EJ-Kai, first introduced in 1971 and license produced by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. Although the American F-4E was the base model, the Japanese phantoms initially removed the aerial refueling functions due to the leftist’s concern of “posing a threat to neighboring countries.”
Out of the 154 units produced, 90 were later upgraded to the F-4 EJ-Kai with new radars and fire-control systems, enabling some air-strike capabilities.
Even with the F-15J and F-2 fighters joining the force, the F-4 EJ-Kai remained in service throughout the 1980s〜90s, though its outdated nature quickly became apparent.
One must remember that even at the height of the Cold War, Japan exercised self-restraint when it came to military expenditures, permitting only 1% of the GDP (GNP at the time) to be allocated towards such budget.
The end of the Cold War also contributed to further budget cuts, forcing JASDF to continue using the aging fighters, but plans were made to start replacing them in the 2000s.
Except, this turned out to be postponed for nearly two decades.
Failing To Buy F-22s
As the 21st century arrived, the quest for searching a replacement finally started, and Japan put the F-22 raptor at the top of their wish list. But, this request was soon rejected by the US government who did not want to export such state-of-the-art technology.
It is also said that China warned the US to not sell the F-22s to Japan, as it would completely disrupt the military balance in East Asia. Remember, this was still the 2000s when Washington was less aware or susceptive of Beijing’s military ambitions.
Finally replaced by F-35s (photo: JASDF)
Given this failed purchase, Japan started exploring other possibilities, ranging from domestic development to European fighters, only to end up buying F-35s as an alternative.
Just for the record, the decision to introduce F-35s turned out to be a wise one considering the overall performance and cost, but the decision-making procedure took too long.
As a result, JASDF was stuck with the F-4s for half a century, using some aircrafts past their intended service life. The last batch of F-4 EJ-Kai were finally allowed to retire in March 2021, while the RF-4 EJs , a further modified version for reconnaissance, flew their last flights the previous year.
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