I mean a physically larger aircraft than the F-5 sized ATD-X that I have written about before.

I had theorized that this was an attempt to pressure the US Congress to change the law forbidding exports of the F-22, but now It now appears that they are considering a stealth aircraft in the that is significantly larger. (paid subscription required)

They are talking about two engines in the 22,000 lb thrust range, which appears to put the new aircraft in the Superbug and Typhoon size range, though if it is a strike fighter, it could be larger still, as attack aircraft generally have lower thrust to weight.

It’s clear from the pictures above, that the Japanese are very serious about stealth, which is about attention to detail.

It’s clear that Japan’s immediate need, replacement of its F-4EJ, will not be filled by any such aircraft, the need is too immediate.

The leading candidates for an F-4 are the F/A-18 E/F, Typhoon, and Rafale.

If it weren’t so damn slow, I’d bet on the Japanese buying the Superbug, but I have no clue as to where they are going on this.