Hurdles to a Japanese F-22

Co-authored by Weston Konishi and Robert Dujarric, this article analyzes why Japan could not obtain the American F-22 Raptor stealth fighter in 2009 despite strong interest. The authors outline multiple obstacles: firstly, the U.S. Congress had legally barred F-22 exports to protect its advanced technology, reflecting security hawks’ fear of leaks. This legislative wall made it impossible for the Pentagon to even consider Japan’s request. Secondly, the F-22’s cost was astronomical – even if the export ban lifted, Japan would have faced huge expenses per plane, straining its defense budget. Thirdly, there was concern within the U.S. about maintaining a qualitative edge; some in Washington worried that even a close ally’s possession of such cutting-edge tech might compromise secrets.

Konishi and Dujarric note that these factors had little to do with Japan’s reliability – Japan is a trusted ally – and everything to do with American domestic politics and priorities. As a result, Japan had to look into alternatives (like the F-35 or extending F-15 upgrades) for its air force modernization. The piece underscores a broader point: even in a strong alliance, certain high-end defense cooperation can be limited by legal and political constraints. Japan’s frustration over the F-22 was a case in point, illustrating how alliance dynamics are often subject to Washington’s internal decisions beyond Tokyo’s control.