Japanese military aircraft of the Second World War. Japanese Air Force. Special purpose aircraft

Imperialist circles in Japan continue to actively increase the country's military potential under the guise of creating “defensive forces,” of which aviation is an integral part.

Judging by reports in the foreign press, the revival Japanese Air Force began in the 50s as part of the “public security corps” created with the direct assistance of the Pentagon. After the transformation of this corps into the “self-defense forces” (July 1954), aviation was separated into an independent branch of the armed forces. By this time, its strength was about 6,300 people, it had approximately 170 obsolete American-made aircraft. In 1956, the Air Force (16 thousand people) already included two aviation wings, four control and warning groups, and six aviation schools. The aircraft were based at eight airfields.

According to foreign press, the formation of the Air Force was basically completed by the beginning of the 60s. They included a combat aviation command with three aviation directions that had aviation wings (four fighter and one transport). Pilots were trained at the Air Training Command, and ground specialists were trained at five aviation technical schools, united in a technical training center, which was then transformed into the Air Technical Training Command. At that time, the supply of units and units was carried out by the MTO command, which included three supply centers. In total, there were 40 thousand people in the Air Force.

The third and fourth five-year programs for building the armed forces played an important role in the subsequent development of the Japanese air force. Under the third program (fiscal years 1967/68 - 1971/72), obsolete F-86F and F-104J fighters were replaced by F-4EJ aircraft (Fig. 1), produced by Japanese industry under an American license. RF-4E reconnaissance aircraft were purchased. To replace transport piston aircraft C-4G created its own C-1 transport jet aircraft (Fig. 2), and a T-2 supersonic training aircraft was designed for training flight personnel (Fig. 3). On the basis of the latter, a single-seat close air support aircraft FS-T2 was developed.

Rice. 1. F-4EJ Phantom fighter

During the implementation of the fourth program (fiscal years 1972/73 - 1976/77), the main task of which is considered to be the radical modernization of the Japanese armed forces, including the Air Force, the supply of new aircraft equipment continues. As reported in the foreign press, by April 1, 1975, the air force already had about 60 F-4EJ fighters (a total of 128 aircraft were planned to be purchased). From the second half of 1975, the arrival of FS-T2 aircraft was expected (68 units were ordered).

The country's air defense system began to be created in the early 60s. Along with fighter aircraft, which formed its basis, it included missile units of missile defense systems. In 1964, there were already two groups of Nike-Ajax missile defense systems (each with an anti-aircraft missile division). According to the plans of the third program for the construction of the armed forces, two groups of Nike-J missiles (Japanese version of the missile) were formed. In 1973, another group of these missiles was added to them. At the same time, Nike-Ajax missiles were replaced by Nike-J missiles.

Rice. 2. Transport aircraft S-1

Below is given a brief description of current state Japanese Air Force.

Composition of the Japanese Air Force

By mid-1975, the number personnel The Japanese Air Force was about 45 thousand people. The service consisted of more than 500 combat aircraft (including up to 60 F-4EJ fighters, over 170 F-104J, about 250 F-86F and almost 20 RF-4E and RF-86F reconnaissance aircraft), approximately 400 auxiliary aircraft (more than 35 transport and 350 training aircraft). In addition, there were at least 20 helicopters and approximately 150 Nike-J missile launchers. Aviation was based at 15 air bases and airfields.

Rice. 3. T-2 training aircraft

Japanese Air Force Organization

Air Force Japan includes the Air Force headquarters, air combat command, training aviation and aviation technical commands, logistics command, as well as centrally subordinate units (Fig. 4). The Air Force Commander is also the Chief of Staff.

Rice. 4. Japanese Air Force organization diagram

Air Combat Command is not the highest operational command of the Air Force. It consists of a headquarters located in Fuchu (near Tokyo), three aviation directions, a separate fighter aviation group on the island. Okinawa, individual parts and units, including the reconnaissance aviation squadron.

The aviation sector is considered a specific operational-territorial organizational unit, characteristic only of the Japanese Air Force. In accordance with the territorial division of the country into three air defense zones (Northern, Central and Western), three aviation directions have been created. The commander of each of them is responsible for aviation activities and air defense in his area of ​​​​responsibility. General scheme organization of the aviation sector is shown in Fig. 5. Organizationally, the directions differ from each other only in the number of air wings and missile defense groups.

Rice. 5 Scheme of organization of the aviation sector

The northern aviation direction (headquarters at Misawa airbase) covers the island from the air. Hokkaido and northeastern part O. Honshu. It houses a fighter wing and a separate fighter group armed with F-4EJ and F-1U4J aircraft, as well as a group of Nike-J missiles.

The Central Aviation Direction (Irumagawa Air Base) is responsible for the defense of the central part of the island. Honshu. It includes three fighter wings (F-4FJ, F-104J and F-86F aircraft) and two groups of Nike-J missiles.

The western aviation direction (Kasuga Air Base) provides cover for the southern part of the island. Honshu, as well as the Shikoku and Kyushu islands. His fighting forces consists of two fighter wings (F-104J and F-86F aircraft), as well as two groups of Nike-J missile defense systems. For the defense of the Ryukyu Archipelago on the island. Okinawa (Paha Air Base) a separate fighter aviation group (F-104J aircraft) and a Nike-J missile defense group, which is part of it, are operationally subordinate to this direction. The following detachments are also located here: logistics, control and warning, as well as the base one.

As reported in the foreign press, the fighter wing (Fig. 6) is the main tactical unit of the Japanese Air Force. It has a headquarters battle group(two or three fighter squadrons), a logistics group consisting of five detachments for various purposes, and an airfield service group (seven to eight detachments).

Rice. 6 Fighter wing organization diagram

The control and warning wing operates in the area of ​​its direction (air defense sector). Its main task is the timely detection of air targets, their identification, as well as alerting commanders of units and air defense units about the enemy air force and guiding fighters towards it. The wing includes: headquarters, an air situation control group, three or four control and warning groups, logistics and basic maintenance groups. The control and warning wings of the Northern and Western aviation directions are subordinated to one mobile detection and warning detachment, designed to strengthen radar cover on the most important areas or to replace failed stationary radars.

A group of Nike-J missiles can hit air targets on average and high altitudes. It consists of a headquarters, a missile defense division of three or four batteries (nine launchers per battery), a logistics detachment and a maintenance detachment.

The aviation logistics department is responsible for organizing the supply of military equipment, weapons, ammunition and other military equipment to units.

A separate reconnaissance aviation squadron (Irumagawa airfield), directly subordinate to the headquarters of the air combat command, is equipped with RF-4E and RF-80F aircraft. It has a headquarters, a logistics detachment and an airfield service detachment.

The Air Training Command provides training for Air Force flight personnel. It includes a headquarters, one fighter and three training air wings, as well as a training air squadron. Training is conducted on T-1A, T-2, T-33A and F-86F aircraft.

The Aviation Technical Training Command, which unites five aviation technical schools, trains specialists for the support and auxiliary services of the air force.

The MTO command is engaged long-term planning, procurement and distribution of military equipment, weapons and supplies in accordance with the needs of combat and auxiliary units and units of the Air Force. Three supply bases are subordinate to the logistics command.

Units under central command include a transport aviation wing and a rescue aviation wing. The first is intended for airlifting troops and cargo, as well as for landing airborne assaults. The wing includes: a headquarters, a transport aviation group, including two aviation squadrons and a training aviation detachment (S-1, YS-11 and S-40 aircraft), as well as logistics and airfield maintenance groups. The second wing's mission is to search for and rescue crews of aircraft (helicopters) that have crashed directly over Japanese territory or over coastal waters. The wing's components are the headquarters, eight rescue squads located in various parts of the country, a training squadron and a logistics group. It is armed with MIJ-2, T-34 aircraft and S-G2, Y-107 helicopters.

The air defense of Japan is organized and conducted according to a unified plan of the command of the armed forces using F-4EJ, F-104J, F-8GF fighters and Nike-J missiles from the air force. In addition, available resources are used for these purposes. ground forces ah Japan 3UR (seven anti-aircraft groups - up to 160 PU). Airspace surveillance is carried out by 28 radar posts. An automated system is used for centralized control of air defense forces and means.

Combat training Japanese Air Force personnel is aimed primarily at practicing the country's air defense missions. Crews of tactical fighters and transport aircraft are trained to perform air support missions and support the actions of ground forces and, to a lesser extent, naval forces.

Japanese military leadership believes that the country's aviation capabilities are not adequate at full sea modern requirements combat operations, primarily because most of the aircraft in service are worn out. In this regard, measures are being taken to replace the outdated F-86F and F-104J fighters. To this end, Japanese experts are studying combat capabilities fighters foreign countries(American F-16, F-15 and F-14, Swedish, French and others), the production of which could be mastered at Japanese enterprises under licenses. In addition, Japanese firms are increasing their output modern aircraft F-4FJ, FS-T2, S-1 and T-2.

Information about the Japanese Air Force published in the foreign press shows that the aviation equipment in its arsenal is constantly improving qualitatively, and the organizational structure is being systematically improved. A characteristic feature of the construction of the Air Force is that it is increasingly equipped with aircraft equipment of its own production.

The aircraft was produced by Kawasaki in 1935-1938. It was an all-metal biplane with a fixed landing gear and an open cockpit. A total of 588 vehicles were produced, incl. Ki-10-I – 300 vehicles and Ki-10-II – 280 vehicles. Performance characteristics of the vehicle: length – 7.2 m; height – 3 m; wingspan – 10 m; wing area - 23 m²; empty weight – 1.4 t, take-off weight – 1.7 t; engine - Kawasaki Ha-9 with 850 hp; rate of climb – 1,000 m/m; maximum speed – 400 km/h, practical range – 1,100 km; practical ceiling – 11,500 m; armament - two 7.7 mm Type 89 machine guns; crew - 1 person.

Night heavy fighter produced by Kawasaki in 1942-1945. A total of 1.7 thousand cars were produced in four serial modifications: Ki-45 KAIa, Ki-45 KAIb, Ki-45 KAIc and Ki-45 KAId. Vehicle performance characteristics: length – 11 m; height – 3.7 m; wingspan – 15 m; wing area – 32 m²; empty weight – 4 t, take-off weight – 5.5 t; engines - two Mitsubishi Ha-102 with a power of 1,080 hp; volume of fuel tanks – 1 thousand liters; rate of climb – 11 m/s; maximum speed – 547 km/h; practical range – 2,000 km; practical ceiling – 9,200 m; armament - 37 mm No-203 cannon, two 20 mm Ho-5, 7.92 mm Type 98 machine gun; ammunition 1,050 rounds; bomb load - 500 kg; crew - 2 people.

The aircraft was produced by Kawasaki in 1942-1945. It had an all-metal semi-monocoque fuselage structure, pilot armor protection and protected tanks. A total of 3.2 thousand vehicles were produced in two serial modifications: Ki-61-I and Ki-61-II, which differed in equipment and armament. Vehicle performance characteristics: length – 9.2 m; height – 3.7 m; wingspan – 12 m; wing area – 20 m²; empty weight – 2.8 t, take-off weight – 3.8 t; engine - Kawasaki Ha-140 with a power of 1,175 - 1,500 hp; volume of fuel tanks – 550 l; rate of climb – 13.9 – 15.2 m/s; maximum speed - 580 - 610 km/h, cruising speed - 450 km/h; practical range – 1,100 – 1,600 km; practical ceiling – 11,000 m; armament - two 20-mm No-5 cannons, two 12.7-mm Type No-103 machine guns, 1,050 rounds of ammunition; bomb load - 500 kg; crew - 1 person.

The aircraft was produced by Kawasaki based on the Ki-61 Hien in 1945 by replacing the liquid-cooled engine with an air-cooled engine. A total of 395 vehicles were produced in two modifications: Ki-100-Іа and Ki-100-Ib. Vehicle performance characteristics: length – 8.8 m; height – 3.8 m; wingspan – 12 m; wing area – 20 m²; empty weight – 2.5 t, take-off weight – 3.5 t; engine – Mitsubishi Ha 112-II with a power of 1,500 hp, rate of climb – 16.8 m/s; maximum speed – 580 km/h, cruising speed – 400 km/h; practical range – 2,200 km; practical ceiling – 11,000 m; armament - two 20-mm No-5 cannons and two 12.7-mm machine guns Type No-103; crew - 1 person.

A twin-engine, two-seat, long-range fighter-interceptor was produced by Kawasaki based on the Ki-96 in 1944-1945. A total of 238 vehicles were built. Vehicle performance characteristics: length – 11.5 m; height – 3.7 m; wingspan - 15.6 m; wing area – 34 m²; empty weight – 5 t, take-off weight – 7.3 t; engines - two Mitsubishi Ha-112 with a power of 1,500 hp; rate of climb – 12 m/s; maximum speed – 580 km/h; practical range – 1,200 km; practical ceiling – 10,000 m; armament - 57-mm No-401 cannon, two 20-mm No-5 cannons and a 12.7-mm Type No-103 machine gun; bomb load - 500 kg; crew - 2 people.

The N1K-J Shiden, a single-seat all-metal fighter, was produced by Kawanishi in 1943-1945. in two serial modifications: N1K1-J and N1K2-J. A total of 1.4 thousand cars were produced. Performance characteristics of the vehicle: length – 8.9 – 9.4 m; height – 4 m; wingspan – 12 m; wing area – 23.5 m²; empty weight – 2.7 – 2.9 t, take-off weight – 4.3 – 4.9 t; engine – Nakajima NK9H with a power of 1,990 hp; rate of climb – 20.3 m/s; maximum speed – 590 km/h, cruising speed – 365 km/h; practical range - 1,400 - 1,700 km; practical ceiling – 10,700 m; armament - two 20 mm Type 99 cannons and two 7.7 mm machine guns or four 20 mm Type 99 cannons; bomb load - 500 kg; crew - 1 person.

A single-seat all-metal interceptor fighter was produced by Mitsubishi in 1942-1945. A total of 621 vehicles of the following modifications were produced: J-2M1 - (8 vehicles), J-2M2 - (131), J-2M3 (435), J-2M4 - (2), J-2M5 - (43) and J- 2M6 (2). Vehicle performance characteristics: length – 10 m; height – 4 m; wingspan - 10.8 m; wing area - 20 m²; empty weight – 2.5 t, take-off weight – 3.4 t; engine - Mitsubishi MK4R-A with a power of 1,820 hp; rate of climb – 16 m/s; maximum speed – 612 km/h, cruising speed – 350 km/h; practical range – 1,900 km; practical ceiling – 11,700 m; armament - four 20-mm Type 99 cannons; bomb load - 120 kg; crew - 1 person.

An all-metal night twin-engine fighter was produced by Mitsubishi based on the Ki-46 reconnaissance aircraft in 1944-1945. It was a low-wing monoplane with a retractable tail wheel. A total of 613 thousand cars were produced. Vehicle performance characteristics: length – 11 m; height – 3.9 m; wingspan - 14.7 m; wing area – 32 m²; empty weight – 3.8 t, take-off weight – 6.2 t; engines - two Mitsubishi Ha-112 with a power of 1,500 hp; volume of fuel tanks – 1.7 thousand liters; rate of climb – 7.4 m/s; maximum speed – 630 km/h, cruising speed – 425 km/h; practical range – 2,500 km; practical ceiling – 10,700 m; armament - 37 mm cannon and two 20 mm cannons; crew - 2 people.

An all-metal loitering interceptor fighter was produced by Mitsubishi in 1944 on the basis of the Ki-67 bomber. A total of 22 cars were produced. Vehicle performance characteristics: length – 18 m; height – 5.8 m; wingspan - 22.5 m; wing area – 65.9 m²; empty weight – 7.4 t, take-off weight – 10.8 t; engines - two Mitsubishi Ha-104 with a power of 1900 hp; rate of climb – 8.6 m/s; maximum speed – 550 km/h, cruising speed – 410 km/h; practical range – 2,200 km; practical ceiling – 12,000 m; armament - 75 mm Type 88 cannon, 12.7 mm Type 1 machine gun; crew - 4 people.

The twin-engine night fighter was produced by Nakajima Aircraft in 1942-1944. A total of 479 vehicles were built in four modifications: J-1n1-C KAI, J-1N1-R (J1N1-F), J-1N1-S and J-1N1-Sa. Vehicle performance characteristics: length – 12.2 – 12.8 m; height – 4.6 m; wingspan – 17 m; wing area - 40 m²; empty weight - 4.5-5 tons, take-off weight - 7.5 - 8.2 tons; engines - two Nakajima NK1F Sakae 21/22 with a power of 980 - 1,130 hp; rate of climb – 8.7 m/s; fuel tank capacity - 1.7 - 2.3 thousand liters; maximum speed – 507 km/h, cruising speed – 330 km/h; practical range – 2,500 – 3,800 km; practical ceiling – 9,300 – 10,300 m; armament - two to four 20 mm Type 99 cannons or a 20 mm cannon and four 7.7 mm Type 97 machine guns; crew - 2 people.

The fighter was produced by Nakajima in 1938-1942. in two main modifications: Ki-27a and Ki-27b. It was a single-seat all-metal low-wing aircraft with a closed cockpit and a fixed landing gear. A total of 3.4 thousand cars were produced. Vehicle performance characteristics: length – 7.5 m; height – 3.3 m; wingspan - 11.4 m; wing area – 18.6 m²; empty weight – 1.2 t, take-off weight – 1.8 t; engine - Nakajima Ha-1 with a power of 650 hp; rate of climb – 15.3 m/s; maximum speed – 470 km/h, cruising speed – 350 km/h; practical range – 1,700 km; practical ceiling – 10,000 m; armament - 12.7 mm Type 1 machine gun and 7.7 mm Type 89 machine gun or two 7.7 mm machine guns; bomb load - 100 kg; crew - 1 person.

Nakajima Ki-43 Hayabusa fighter

The aircraft was produced by Nakajima in 1942-1945. It was an all-metal, single-engine, single-seat, cantilever low-wing aircraft. The rear part of the fuselage was a single unit with the tail unit. At the base of the wing there were retractable all-metal flaps, increasing not only the curvature of its profile, but also its area. A total of 5.9 thousand vehicles were produced in three serial modifications - Ki-43-I/II/III. Vehicle performance characteristics: length – 8.9 m; height – 3.3 m; wingspan - 10.8 m; wing area – 21.4 m²; empty weight – 1.9 t, take-off weight – 2.9 t; engine - Nakajima Ha-115 with a power of 1,130 hp; rate of climb – 19.8 m/s; fuel tank volume – 563 l; maximum speed – 530 km/h, cruising speed – 440 km/h; practical range – 3,200 km; practical ceiling – 11,200 m; armament - two 12.7 mm No-103 machine guns or two 20 mm Ho-5 cannons; bomb load - 500 kg; crew - 1 person.

A single-seat fighter-interceptor of all-metal construction was produced by Nakajima in 1942-1944. It had a semi-monocoque fuselage, a low wing with all-metal flaps equipped with a hydraulic drive. The pilot's cabin was covered with a teardrop-shaped canopy for all-round visibility. The landing gear is tricycle with two main struts and a tail wheel. During flight, all landing gear wheels were retracted by a hydraulic system and covered with shields. A total of 1.3 thousand aircraft were produced. Vehicle performance characteristics: length – 8.9 m; height – 3 m; wingspan – 9.5 m; wing area – 15 m²; empty weight – 2.1 t, take-off weight – 3 t; engine - Nakajima Ha-109 with a power of 1,520 hp; fuel tank volume – 455 l; rate of climb – 19.5 m/s; maximum speed – 605 km/h, cruising speed – 400 km/h; practical range – 1,700 km; practical ceiling – 11,200 m; armament - four 12.7-mm No-103 machine guns or two 40-mm Ho-301 cannons, 760 rounds of ammunition; bomb load - 100 kg; crew - 1 person.

The single-seat fighter was produced by Nakajima in 1943-1945. In total, 3.5 thousand vehicles were produced in the following modifications: Ki-84, Ki-84-Iа/b/с and Ki-84-II. It was a cantilever low-wing monoplane of all-metal construction. It had pilot armor, protected fuel tanks and retractable landing gear. Vehicle performance characteristics: length – 9.9 m; height – 3.4 m; wingspan – 11.2 m; wing area – 21 m²; empty weight – 2.7 t, take-off weight – 4.1 t; engine - Nakajima Na-45 with a power of 1,825 - 2,028 hp; fuel tank volume – 737 l; rate of climb – 19.3 m/s; maximum speed - 630 - 690 km/h, cruising speed - 450 km/h; practical range – 1,700 km; practical ceiling – 11,500 m; armament - two 20-mm No-5 cannon, two 12.7-mm Type No-103 machine guns or four 20-mm No-5; bomb load - 500 kg; crew - 1 person.

FOREIGN MILITARY REVIEW No. 9/2008, pp. 44-51

MajorV. BUDANOV

For the beginning, see: Foreign Military Review. - 2008. - No. 8. - P. 3-12.

The first part of the article examined the general organizational structure of the Japanese Air Force, as well as the composition and tasks performed by the air combat command.

Command combat support (KBO) is intended to support the activities of the LHC. It solves the problems of search and rescue, military transport, transport and refueling, meteorological and navigation support. Organizationally, this command includes a search and rescue air wing, three transport air groups, a transport and refueling squadron, control groups air traffic, meteorological support and control of radio navigation equipment, as well as a special transport air group. The number of KBO personnel is about 6,500 people.

This year, the first squadron of transport and refueling aviation was created in the KBO with the aim of expanding the operational zone of fighter aircraft and increasing the combat capabilities of the Air Force to protect islands and sea communications remote from the main territory. At the same time, it is expected to increase the duration of fighter aircraft patrols in threatened areas. The presence of refueling aircraft will also make it possible to carry out non-stop transfer of fighters to remote training grounds (including abroad) to practice operational and combat training tasks. The aircraft, a new class for the Japanese Air Force, can be used to deliver personnel and cargo and enable greater participation of the national armed forces in international peacekeeping and humanitarian operations. It is assumed that refueling aircraft will be based at Komaki Air Base (Honshu Island).

In total, according to calculations by military department specialists, it is considered advisable to have up to 12 tanker aircraft in the Japanese Air Force in the future. Organizationally, the refueling aviation squadron will include a headquarters and three groups: refueling aviation, aviation engineering support and airfield maintenance. The total staffing level of the units is approximately 10 people.

Simultaneously with the performance of refueling functions, the aircraftKC-767 Jintended to be used as a transport

Organizational structure of the Japanese Air Force Combat Support Command

The basis of the squadron being formed will be the KC-767J transport and refueling aircraft (TRA) produced by the American company Boeing. In accordance with the application of the Japanese Ministry of Defense, the United States is converting four already built Boeing 767s into the corresponding modification. One aircraft is valued at approximately $224 million. The KC-767J is equipped with a controlled fuel refueling boom in the rear fuselage. With its help, he will be able to refuel one aircraft in the air with a fuel transfer rate of up to 3.4 thousand l/min. The time required to refuel one F-15 fighter (fuel tank capacity 8 thousand liters) will be about 2.5 minutes. Total stock aircraft fuel 116 thousand liters. Depending on the need, fuel can either be used by the KC-767J itself or transferred to other aircraft. This will allow for more flexible use of the reserves available on board. The capabilities of a vehicle of this type for in-flight refueling can be increased by installing an additional fuel tank volume of about 24 thousand liters.

Along with performing refueling functions, the KC-767J aircraft is intended to be used as a transport aircraft for the delivery of cargo and personnel. Conversion from one version to another takes from 3 to 5 hours 30 minutes. The maximum carrying capacity of this vehicle is 35 tons or up to 200 personnel with standard small arms.

In addition to the standard avionics installed on Boeing 767 aircraft, the KC-767J is equipped with a set of equipment special purpose, including: RARO-2 air refueling control system, meter and decimeter radio communications, GATM air traffic control system, friend-foe identification equipment, Link-16 high-speed data transmission equipment, UHF direction-finding station range, TAKAN radio navigation system and NAVSTAR CRNS receiver. According to plan combat use KC-767J is expected that one TZS will support the operation of up to eight F-15 fighters.

Organizational structure of the Japanese Air Force Training Command

Currently, the Japanese Air Force has only three types of aircraft (F-4EJ, F-15J/DJ and F-2A/B fighters) equipped with in-flight refueling systems. In the future, the presence of such systems will be considered as a prerequisite for promising fighter aircraft. The training of Japanese Air Force fighter aircraft to solve the problem of in-flight refueling has been carried out on a regular basis since 2003 during special flight tactical training, as well as joint exercises with the US Air Force "Cope Thunder" (Alaska) and "Cope North" (Alaska). Guam, Mariana Islands). During these activities, the transfer of fuel is worked out jointly with the American fuel station KS-135, based at the Kadena Air Base (Okinawa Island).

At the request of the military department, since 2006, measures have been taken to ensure the possibility of in-flight refueling of helicopters. As part of the allocated allocations of over $24 million, it is planned, in particular, to convert the military transport aircraft (MTC) S-ION into a tanker. As a result, the vehicle will be equipped with a rod for receiving fuel and two devices for transmitting it in the air using the “hose-cone” method, as well as additional tanks. The upgraded C-130N will be able to itself receive fuel from another refueling aircraft and carry out simultaneous mid-air refueling of two helicopters. It is assumed that the volume of fuel reserves will be about 13 thousand liters, and its transmission speed will be 1.1 thousand l/min. At the same time, work began on installing the corresponding equipment on the UH-60J, CH-47Sh and MSN-101 helicopters.

In addition, the Ministry of Defense decided to provide refueling capabilities to the promising C-X transport aircraft. For this purpose, on the second prototype the necessary improvements and research have been carried out. According to the leadership of the military department, this will not affect the already determined deadlines for the implementation of the R&D program, according to which S-X aircraft will begin to be delivered to the troops to replace outdated S-1s from the end of 2011. In accordance with the tactical and technical specifications, the carrying capacity of the S-X will be 26 tons or up to 110 personnel, and the flight range will be about 6,500 km.

Training Command(UK) is intended for training personnel for the Air Force. It has been operating since 1959, and in 1988, as part of the reorganization of this type, it was reorganized. The command structure includes two fighter and three training wings, an officer candidate school and five aviation technical schools. The total number of permanent personnel of the Criminal Code is about 8 thousand people.

Fighter and training aviation wings are designed to train students and cadets in aircraft piloting techniques. In its own way organizational structure these air wings are similar to the two-squadron BAC fighter wing. In addition, in 4 acre there is a demonstration and aerobatic squadron "Blue Impuls" (T-4 aircraft).

The training of pilots of fighter, military transport and search and rescue aviation of the Japanese Air Force is carried out in educational institutions and combat aviation units. It includes three main stages:

Training cadets in piloting techniques and the basics of combat use of combat training aircraft;

Mastering the technique of piloting and combat use of fighters, military transport aircraft and helicopters in service with the Air Force;

Improving the training of flight personnel of aviation units during their service.

The duration of training at a military aviation educational institution from the moment of enrollment until the assignment of the initial officer rank of lieutenant is five years and three months. IN educational establishments The Air Force accepts young men aged 18 to 21 with secondary education.

At the preliminary stage, there is an initial selection of candidates for training, carried out by officers of the prefectural recruiting centers. It includes reviewing applications, getting acquainted with the candidates’ personal data and passing a medical commission. Successfully completed this stage candidates take entrance exams and undergo professional aptitude testing. Applicants who pass the exams with a grade of at least “good” and pass testing become cadets of the Japanese Air Force. The annual intake is about 100 people, of which up to 80 are high school graduates, the rest are graduates of civilian institutes who have expressed a desire to become military pilots.

As part of theoretical training, before starting flight training, cadets study aerodynamics, aircraft technology, documents regulating flight operations, communications and radio equipment, and also acquire and consolidate skills in working with aircraft cockpit equipment during comprehensive training sessions. Duration of training is two years. After this, the cadets are transferred to the first year of initial flight training (on aircraft with piston engines).

The duration of the first stage (on combat training aircraft) is eight months, the program is designed for 368 hours (138 hours of ground training and 120 hours of command and staff training, 70 hours of flight time on T-3 aircraft, as well as 40 hours of training on simulators). The training is organized on the basis of the 11th and 12th AK training aircraft, which are equipped with T-3 training aircraft (up to 25 units each), simulators and other necessary equipment. The total number of permanent staff (teachers, instructor pilots, engineers, technicians, etc.) of one air wing is 400-450 people, cadets 40-50.

Individual training of pilots is considered the basis for high combat training of flight personnel.

The flight instructors have significant experience in combat and educational units. The minimum total flight time of an instructor is 1,500 hours, the average is 3,500 hours. Each of them is assigned no more than two cadets for the training period. Their mastering of piloting techniques is carried out according to the principle “from simple to complex” and begins with practicing take-off, circling flight, landing, and simple aerobatics in the zone. Quite stringent requirements are imposed on cadets' piloting techniques, the need for which is determined by considerations of ensuring flight safety and achieving high professionalism of future pilots. In this regard, the number of cadets expelled due to professional incompetence is quite large (15-20 percent). After completing the first course of initial flight training, cadets are trained in accordance with their desire and demonstrated professional abilities in fighter and pilot training programs. military transport aviation, as well as helicopter pilots.

The fighter pilot training program begins in the second year primary education(on jet-powered aircraft).

The duration of training is currently 6.5 months. The training program includes ground (321 hours, 15 training topics) and command and staff (173 hours) training, 85 hours of flight time on T-2 jet combat training aircraft (UBS), as well as comprehensive training on the S-11 simulator (15 hours ). Training under the second-year program is organized on the basis of the 13th training wing. The total number of permanent personnel of the wing is 350 people, including 40 instructor pilots, whose average flight time on all types of aircraft is 3,750 hours. During training, up to 10 percent. cadets are expelled due to professional incompetence.

The demonstration and aerobatic squadron "Blue Impuls" 4 acre is equipped

by T-4 aircraft

Having completed initial flight training on piston and jet aircraft with a total flight time of 155 hours, cadets proceed to the main course of training, which is conducted on the basis of the 1st Fighter Wing on Japanese-made T-4 aircraft. The program of this training course lasts 6.5 months. It provides for a total flight time of 100 hours for each cadet, ground training (240 hours) and classes in command and staff disciplines (161 hours). Up to 10 percent cadets who have not mastered piloting techniques within the number of export flights established by the program are expelled. Graduates of the basic flight training course are awarded a pilot qualification and awarded the corresponding badges.

The goal of the second stage of flight training for cadets is to master the techniques of piloting and combat use of aircraft in service with the Air Force. In the interests of solving these problems, combat training courses on the T-2 supersonic jet trainers and retraining courses on combat aircraft F-15J and F-4EJ.

The T-2 combat training course is conducted at the 4th Fighter Wing, staffed by instructor pilots with significant experience flying F-4E and F-15 combat aircraft. It is designed for ten months. The program provides for a total cadet flight time of 140 hours. Independent training flights account for approximately 70 percent. total flight time. At the same time, trainees develop stable skills in piloting and combat use of T-2 aircraft. A characteristic feature of the training is the participation of cadets, as they gain experience, in joint tactical flight training with pilots of combat units to practice issues of conducting air battles fighters various types. After completing the combat training course on T-2 aircraft, the total flight time of the cadets is 395^00 hours and they are assigned military rank non-commissioned officer. Theoretical and practical retraining is carried out in the 202nd (F-15J aircraft) and 301 (F-4EJ) air defense fighter aviation squadrons, which, along with performing this task, are involved in combat duty. During it, cadets practice the basic elements of piloting techniques and combat use of F-15J and F-4EJ aircraft.

The retraining program for F-15J aircraft is designed to last 17 weeks. It includes theoretical training, training on TF-15 simulators (280 hours) and flights (30 hours). In total, there are 26 pilots in 202 IAE, of which 20 are instructor pilots, each of whom is assigned one cadet for the training period. Retraining for F-4EJ aircraft is carried out at the 301st Air Defense Fighter Squadron for 15 weeks (during this time the cadet's flight time is 30 hours). The theoretical training and simulator training program is designed for 260 training hours.

Training of pilots on military aviation aircraft and helicopters is carried out on the basis of the 403rd air transport wing and the training squadron of the search and rescue aircraft. Most of these pilots are trained by retraining former fighter pilots to military transport aircraft and helicopters, and about half are trained as cadets who, like future fighter pilots, first train in a theoretical training unit (two years) and undergo the first year of basic flight training (eight months, on T-3 aircraft), after which they master piloting techniques on the T-4 training aircraft, and then on the B-65 training aircraft. Further, future military transport aviation pilots undergo training on YS-11, S-1 aircraft and S-62 helicopters.

Before being awarded the officer rank of lieutenant, all cadets who have completed retraining and flight practice in units are sent to a four-month command and staff course for flight personnel at the officer candidate school in Nara (Honshu Island). After completing the courses, they are distributed to combat aviation units, where their further training is carried out in accordance with the plans and programs developed by the Japanese Air Force command.

The third stage - improving the training of flight personnel of aviation units during service - is provided for in the process of combat training. Individual training of pilots is considered the basis for high professional and combat training of flight personnel. Based on this, the Japanese Air Force has developed and is implementing plan increasing the annual flight hours of fighter aviation pilots. Flight personnel improve their skills in accordance with special Air Force combat training programs, which provide for the consistent development of elements of combat use independently, as part of a pair, flight, squadron and wing. The programs are being developed by the headquarters of the Japanese Air Force in cooperation with the headquarters of the 5th VA of the US Air Force (AvB Yokota, Honshu Island). The highest form of combat training for flight personnel is flight tactical exercises and training conducted both independently and in conjunction with U.S. aircraft stationed in the Western Pacific.

Every year, the Japanese Air Force hosts a significant number of flight training events on the scale of air wings and aviation areas, an important place among which is occupied by flight-tactical exercises and competitions of the air units of the BAC and the transport air wing. The largest include the final exercise of the national air force "Soen", the Japanese-American tactical flight exercise "Cope North", as well as joint search and rescue units. In addition, Japanese-American tactical flight training to intercept B-52 strategic bombers in electronic countermeasures conditions and weekly training of fighter aircraft crews in the areas of the Okinawa and Hokkaido islands are systematically organized.

Carrying out scientific research, experiments and tests in the interests of improving aviation equipment and weapons of the Air Force are entrusted to test command. Organizationally, the command structure includes a test wing, an electronic weapons testing group and an aviation medicine research laboratory. The test wing performs the following functions: it is engaged in testing and studying the flight, operational and tactical characteristics of aircraft, aviation weapons, radio-electronic and special equipment; develops recommendations for their operation, piloting and combat use; conducts control flights of aircraft arriving from manufacturing plants. Test pilots are also trained at its base. In its activities, the wing is in close contact with the research and technical center.

The Logistics Command is dedicated to solving Air Force logistics problems. It is responsible for receiving and creating inventories of material resources, their storage, distribution and Maintenance. Organizationally, the command structure includes four supply bases.

In general, the attention paid by the military-political leadership of the country to the development of the national air force indicates important role this high-tech branch of the armed forces is part of Tokyo's plans to ensure the country's combat readiness.

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The twentieth century was a period of intense development military aviation In many European countries. The reason for its appearance was the need of states for air and missile defense of economic and political centers. The development of combat aviation was observed not only in Europe. The twentieth century was a time of increasing the power of the Air Force, which also sought to protect itself and strategic and nationally important facilities.

How it all began? Japan in 1891-1910

In 1891, the first flying machines were launched in Japan. These were models using rubber motors. Over time, a larger one was created, the design of which had a drive and a pusher screw. But the Japanese Air Force was not interested in this product. The birth of aviation occurred in 1910, after the acquisition of Farman and Grande aircraft.

1914 First air battle

The first attempts to use Japanese combat aircraft were made in September 1914. At this time, the army of the Land of the Rising Sun, together with England and France, opposed the Germans stationed in China. A year before these events, the Japanese Air Force acquired two two-seat Nieuport NG aircraft and one three-seat Nieuport NM aircraft manufactured in 1910 for training purposes. Soon these air units began to be used for combat. In 1913, the Japanese Air Force had at its disposal four Farman aircraft, which were designed for reconnaissance. Over time, they began to be used to carry out air strikes against the enemy.

In 1914, German aircraft attacked the fleet at Tsingatao. Germany at that time used one of its best aircraft- “Taub.” During this military campaign, Japanese Air Force aircraft flew 86 missions and dropped 44 bombs.

1916-1930. Activities of manufacturing companies

At this time, the Japanese companies Kawasaki, Nakajima and Mitsubishi were developing a unique flying boat, Yokoso. Since 1916, Japanese manufacturers have created designs for the best aircraft models in Germany, France and England. This state of affairs lasted for fifteen years. Since 1930, companies began producing aircraft for the Japanese Air Force. Today this state is one of the ten most powerful armies in the world.

Domestic developments

By 1936, the first aircraft were designed by the Japanese manufacturing companies Kawasaki, Nakajima and Mitsubishi. The Japanese Air Force already possessed domestically produced twin-engine G3M1 and Ki-21 bombers, Ki-15 reconnaissance aircraft and A5M1 fighters. In 1937, the conflict between Japan and China flared up again. This entailed the privatization of large industrial enterprises by Japan and the restoration of state control over them.

Japanese Air Force. Command organization

The head of the Japanese Air Force is the General Staff. The following commands are subordinate to him:

• combat support;
• aviation;
• communications;
• educational;
• security team;
• test;
• hospital;
• Japanese Air Force counterintelligence department.

The combat strength of the Air Force is represented by combat, training, transport and special aircraft and helicopters.

who shocked the world

The Japanese roll out the first airliner in the last half century M.R.J. made me look at the previous successes of the Japanese in aircraft manufacturing. Now the role of Japan in aircraft manufacturing seems insignificant, but in XX century, the Japanese were among the six leading powers that determined the entire world aircraft industry (also the USA, USSR, England, Germany, France). The role of other powers outside these six was indeed negligible - they accounted for less than 10% of the total output. Yes, now the Japanese make few aircraft (in units), but we should not forget that the same “Dreamliner” is 35% made in Japan, and this is already talking about many hundreds of “conditional” aircraft!

Magazine « Flight » presented a traditional flash mob based on the 10 most notable in history modern aviation Japanese planes

NAMC YS-11

40-seat passenger YS -11, produced by the corporation NAMC , turned out to be the last Japanese passenger airliner before the “saga of M.R.J. " Its production ended 40 years ago, but at least 17 aircraft of this type are still in operation - 15 by the Japanese Ministry of Defense, and two by the Mexican company Alon.

Mitsubishi MRJ

The rollout of a 96-seat regional airliner from Mitsubishi a week ago, on October 18, marked a new era in Japanese aircraft manufacturing. The first flight is scheduled for the first quarter of 2015. In total, Mitsubishi has collected orders for 191 aircraft with deliveries to begin in 2017. Another 76-seat modification is planned M.R.J. 70, but nothing has been heard about the 100-seater for a long time - after numerous delays with the main project, the Japanese have nothing to do with it.

How many howls were there from opponents of the Sukhoi Superjet when the Japanese were just announcing their plans: “How can we compete with the Japanese and Chinese? The Japanese have plastic, cooperation and all that. What do we have after the “successful” collapse of perestroika?”

However, ten years have passed, the Japanese missed all the deadlines, the prototype aircraft had to be rebuilt from scratch, as they failed with certification (which means a break of 50 years!). “And these people forbid us to pick our noses”?!

Honda NA-420

This aircraft of an unusual layout with engines on pylons on the wing (before this only the Germans had done this) and smooth plastic skin is now undergoing certification tests. Four aircraft are currently flying and certification is expected in the first quarter of 2015. Serial release planned at the Greensboro plant in the USA. Currently the order book is for 18 aircraft from the USA and Mexico.

Mitsubishi F-2

Externally this Japanese fighter looks like American F -16, which is not surprising, since it was created in cooperation with the Americans. But structurally - made of plastic - it is strikingly different from the prototype. There are currently 78 aircraft of this type on the wing, and Mitsubishi is already thinking about a new fighter...

Shinmaiwa US -2

Amphibian US -2 is intended for search and rescue operations of the Japanese Self-Defense Fleet, and is a logical development of the previous amphibian - US -1, which is still in service. WITH US -2 is associated with a serious breakthrough of the Japanese into the military aviation market - the Indians plan to order about 18 aircraft.
Generally US -2, judging by Sokolyansky’s formula, is now the most seaworthy flying boat.

Kawasaki R-1

The P-1 jet maritime patrol aircraft developed by Kawasaki is intended to replace the outdated American P-3 Orions. Japanese “self-defense” has already received two experimental XP-1s and five production aircraft.

Mitsubishi Mu-2

This small twin-engine upper wing, which carried only 14 people, first flew back in 1962, but nevertheless 287 of such aircraft are still flying.

Mitsubishi Mu-300 "Diamond"

On the wave of success Mu -2 Mitsubishi decided to create a business jet Mu -300. The plane first took off in 1978. The rights to it were acquired by the American company Beechcraft, which rebranded it as Beech 400. Currently, 56 “diamonds” are still flying, mainly in the USA, and the only one flying in Japan is Mu -300, which has been used for 30 years as a flying laboratory.

Kawasaki XC-2

The S-2 aircraft is being created as a replacement for the self-defense forces transport aircraft S-1 and Hercules. The Japanese answer to all sorts of “Globemasters” and “Atlanteans”. It features a dual-engine layout. The maximum carrying capacity is expected to be 37 tons. And the S-1 has 27 copies left.

Mitsubishi A6M "Zero"


What is a story about the “Japanese” without “Zero”? Even if it has long been a “historical” aircraft. In turn, he completely changed the “West’s” view of Japanese aviation, and amazed opponents with maneuverability, rate of climb and lightweight design. Every twentieth aircraft in Japanese history is one of 11 thousand Zeros. What is it, “historical” - several copies are still flying, and “zero building” continues...