Operated By JGSDF
When high-ranking government officials, including the Prime Minister, travel abroad, they mostly use the famous Japanese Air Force One.
On the other hand, when it comes to moving around within Japan, they normally ride the Shinkansen (bullet train) or commercial flights.
However, in certain situations, they may use the “Special Transport Helicopter” which is basically the Japanese version of the “Marine One.”
Similar to the actual Marine One, this VIP helicopter is operated by the Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF), unlike the Japanese Air Force One that is obviously managed by the Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF).
- General Overview
| Length | 19.5m (64ft) |
| Width | 16.2m (53ft) |
| Height | 4.97m (16.3ft) |
| Crew | 2 people |
| Capacity | 20 passengers |
| Speed | 320km/h (200mph) |
| Range | 850km (530 miles) |
| Altitude | 5,000m (16,400ft) |
| Unit Price | 20 million USD |
The Japanese “Marine One” was introduced in 2008 with a total of three EC225 Eurocopters, and are assigned to the Special Transport Helicopter Squadron under the 1st Helicopter Brigade (Camp Kisarazu).
While typically used for transporting the Prime Minister etc, it has also been used for assessing the ground situation from above during natural disasters.
Asides from government officials, it is also reserved as a means of transporting the Emperor.
For example, during the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, the helicopter was used for the Prime Minister’s aerial inspection and the Emperor’s visit to disaster-stricken regions.
Given the vital status of its passengers, considerable amount of attention is paid towards assuring its safety, such as inflatable rafts and floats for emergency landing.
It is also installed with bulletproof panels, as well as special systems to minimize heat exhaustion, in case of potential attacks.
Just like the Air Force One, the helicopter usually operates in pairs for safety reasons, and can carry up to 20 people, though this number is kept to a minimum to provide enough space and comfort for the VIP passengers.
Easier To Accommodate
The Special Transport Helicopter is often used for day trips and is especially useful when traveling to rural areas without airports or remote islands.
Although it is less known compared to the Japanese Air Force One, the fact that it does not require a runway has its advantages, making it easier to accommodate for regions with limited infrastructure.
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