Honeywell has proposed its advanced F124 turbofan engine for a pair of future programs of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force, intending to expand its presence in Japan’s defense market.
The engine’s proposed applications are for the replacement of the existing T-4 trainer aircraft and the future Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) program.
“Japan’s defense modernization is accelerating, and Honeywell is actively engaging to support this transformation with the proven capabilities of the F124 engine,” said Sathesh Ramiah, Honeywell Vice President for Defense in Asia Pacific.
“Whether powering advanced trainers or enabling new-generation combat platforms, our technologies are trusted to deliver safety, readiness, and performance for the missions that matter most.”
F124 Engine
The engine’s single-stage design removes the need for complex afterburning systems, reducing fuel consumption, saving wear and tear on engine parts, and extending service life.
The design also enables the highest thrust-to-weight ratio for the engine in its class.
For health and usage monitoring, the F124 features full authority digital electronic control and an integrated engine monitoring system.
Potential Applications
The T-4’s possible replacements include a concept platform by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries called the T-X and the Boeing/Saab T-7A Red Hawk.
The engine’s second potential application is in a US Air Force drone wingman program, which Japan plans to join.
The CCA program is being fought for between General Atomics and Anduril, with the winning platform to support the US Air Force’s Next-Generation Air Dominance initiative.
