Japan explores equipping C-2 transport planes with long-range missiles.

According to an article published by The Japan Times on August 6, 2023, the Defense Ministry of Japan is currently assessing the potential of arming its C-2 transport planes, operated by the Air Self-Defense Force, with long-range missiles. This evaluation aims to strengthen the nation's ability to defend from a distance, as indicated by government sources.

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Japan explores equipping C-2 transport planes with long-range missiles such as the modified locally-made Type 12 SSM or the American AGM-158 JASSM  (Picture source: JASDF and Wikimedia)

The proposed approach involves integrating long-range missiles onto the C-2 transport aircraft, with the intention of enabling Japan to engage enemy bases, including missile launch sites, in counterstrike operations. To achieve this, the Defense Ministry is investigating the feasibility of incorporating a specific type of missile that ignites its engine during mid-flight after being released from the aircraft. This method could reduce the need for extensive modifications to the aircraft itself and draws inspiration from technological advancements pursued by the United States.

To support potential endeavors in this direction, the Defense Ministry has secured a budget of ¥3.6 billion for the fiscal year 2023. The full-scale implementation of the project is projected to commence after technical research has been conducted, a phase anticipated to extend until fiscal year 2024.

It's important to note that this strategy doesn't involve the creation of new missiles exclusively designed for the C-2 platform. Among the missile options under consideration are the AGM-158 Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile (JASSM) manufactured by the United States, boasting an approximate range of 900 kilometers and originally intended for integration with F-15 fighter jets. Additionally, a variant of the Type 12 surface-to-ship guided missile, designed to be compatible with aircraft and featuring a range of up to 1,000 kilometers, is currently in the development stages.

The concept of standoff defense operations permits the targeting of potential threats from a distance, with different branches of Japan's defense forces, including the Ground Self-Defense Forces and Maritime Self-Defense Forces, employing land-based launchers and naval destroyers, respectively, for this purpose.

The C-2 aircraft, recognized for its extended missile-carrying capacity compared to most fighter jets, also boasts prolonged airborne endurance. It has the capability to transport up to 110 individuals and can cover around 7,600 kilometers while carrying a cargo load of up to 20 tons. At present, approximately 15 C-2 aircraft are operational within Japan.

The strategic assessment of bolstering interception capabilities aligns with the government's Defense Buildup Program introduced in the previous year. This program emphasizes diversifying launch platforms and includes exploratory endeavors toward implementing a missile system adaptable to transport aircraft.

Equipping a Kawasaki C-2 transporter with AGM-158 JASSM (Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missile) or a modified Type 12 SSM (Surface-to-Surface Missile) introduces a range of strategic and tactical possibilities that warrant investigation. The implications of this move would depend on specific objectives and operational contexts.

The Kawasaki C-2, acknowledged as a long-range military transport aircraft, possesses the ability to cover considerable distances. Outfitting it with extended-range missiles like AGM-158 JASSM or Type 12 SSM could effectively extend the operational range of these missiles beyond their typical launch platforms, such as fighter jets or naval vessels. This could potentially facilitate strategic strikes from unexpected distances, offering potential tactical advantages.

In a hypothetical scenario, envisioning the integration of the modified Type 12 SSM into the Kawasaki C-2, the aircraft's range of 10,200 kilometers combines with the missile's range of up to 1,000 kilometers, resulting in an estimated combined operational range of around 11,200 kilometers. Similarly, considering the AGM-158 JASSM mounted on the Kawasaki C-2, combining the aircraft's range with the missile's reach of 900 kilometers, the estimated combined operational range would be approximately 11,100 kilometers. These estimates account for the combined capabilities of the aircraft and the respective missiles.

When assessing the operational range of the modified Kawasaki C-2 transporter with the Type 12 SSM or AGM-158 JASSM missiles, it becomes evident that the combined reach is notably extensive. However, it's important to approach direct comparisons with fighter jets in service with the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) with consideration for the distinct roles and operational characteristics of these aircraft.

For example, the fighter jets in the JASDF fleet, such as the F-15J Eagle, F-35A Lightning II, and F-2A/B Viper Zero, prioritize combat agility and adaptability. The F-15J Eagle, for instance, boasts an approximate combat radius of 1,500 kilometers, indicating its capacity to reach a target and return to base without factoring in external fuel tanks. Similarly, the F-35A Lightning II and the F-2A/B Viper Zero have combat radii of around 1,100 kilometers and 833 kilometers, respectively, contingent on their specific configurations.

Comparatively, the modified C-2's combined operational range with the Type 12 SSM (approximately 11,200 kilometers) or the AGM-158 JASSM (approximately 11,100 kilometers) significantly exceeds that of fighter jets. This extensive range stems from the C-2's role as a transport aircraft, designed to cover longer distances and support diverse mission profiles.

While the modified C-2's extended range could be advantageous for missions requiring comprehensive coverage or engagements across substantial distances, it's crucial to remember that range is just one element among many influencing the capabilities of military assets. Mission requirements, payload capacities, speed, agility, and other operational considerations hold equal importance in determining an aircraft's suitability for specific tasks.

Furthermore, the concept of surprise and deception emerges as a notable factor. Large transport aircraft like the C-2 don't immediately align with the concept of offensive capabilities. Consequently, repurposing them as missile carriers could exploit this perception, potentially catching adversaries off-guard due to the unconventional nature of such an arrangement.

The adaptability of the modified C-2 also contributes to its potential utility. The ability to repurpose a transport aircraft for offensive operations introduces a degree of flexibility. It signals to potential adversaries that the nation possesses adaptable military assets capable of exerting influence through diverse means, potentially enhancing deterrence.

From a practical perspective, modifying an existing aircraft offers a cost-efficient pathway. Rather than developing an entirely new missile launch platform, repurposing an existing asset like the Kawasaki C-2 could provide financial advantages by utilizing established infrastructure while achieving the desired offensive capabilities.

The evolving nature of geopolitical threats underscores the importance of adaptability. Retrofitting transport aircraft for offensive roles offers a way to respond to emerging challenges without committing to the extensive processes involved in creating entirely new platforms.

Furthermore, depending on the missile range, the adapted C-2 could potentially be utilized for aerial denial and anti-access strategies. It could engage enemy aircraft, ships, or critical infrastructure from a secure distance, potentially establishing exclusion zones.

Another practical benefit lies in the operational versatility of the C-2, facilitated by its substantial cargo capacity. This could enable the aircraft to transport multiple missiles, providing the potential to engage multiple targets within a single mission or to deliver a combination of offensive and defensive payloads.

However, the feasibility of such modifications involves various complexities. These include structural adjustments, integrating missile launch systems, ensuring stability during launches, and addressing legal and ethical considerations. Additionally, the practical effectiveness of these modifications depends on factors such as missile capabilities.