Japan's XC2 tactical transport aircraft (photo : Kyodo)
ASDF Transport Prototype Tested
GIFU (Kyodo) A prototype of the Air Self-Defense Force's next-generation transport aircraft performed its first test flight Tuesday in Kakamigahara, Gifu Prefecture, more than two years behind schedule due to structural integrity problems.
Code-named XC2, the two-engine jet is being developed by Kawasaki Heavy Industries.
KHI started work on the plane in 2001 as part of a ¥340 billion government project.
The project also covers costs to develop the Maritime Self-Defense Force's next-generation antisubmarine patrol plane, which shares many parts with the XC2.
The plane is 44 meters long, or 15 meters longer than the current ASDF C-1 transport jet.
The aircraft is expected to be used on ASDF missions overseas.
The Defense Ministry had originally planned to conduct the first test flight in summer 2007.
(Japan Times)
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