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F-3 Shinshin Fighter Jet

F-3 Shinshin Fighter Jet

Manufacturer: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
Category: Fighter Jets
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Generation 6th-Generation (Projected)
Maximum Speed Approx. Mach 2 (Estimated)
No. of Engines 2
Radar Range Estimated 200+ miles (AESA)

Full Specifications

General Information

Name	F-3 Shinshin
Manufacturer	Mitsubishi Heavy Industries
Country of Origin	Japan
Type / Role	Stealth Air Superiority Fighter
Generation	Next-Generation (5.5–6th Gen)
Status	Under Development
First Flight	Expected 2030s
Introduction / In Service Since	Planned early–mid 2030s
Number Built	Prototype Phase
Operators	Japan (JASDF)

Dimensions & Structure

Length	Estimated ~19 m
Wingspan	Estimated ~14 m
Height	Estimated ~4.5 m
Wing Area	NA (Not officially released)
Empty Weight	NA
Maximum Takeoff Weight (MTOW)	Estimated 30,000+ kg
Internal Weapons Bay	Yes
External Hardpoints	Limited (stealth-optional)

Performance

Maximum Speed	~Mach 2 (Estimated)
Range	Estimated 2,000+ km
Combat Radius	~1,000 km
Service Ceiling	55,000+ ft
Rate of Climb	NA
Thrust-to-Weight Ratio	High (XF9 engine class)
G Limits	Estimated +9 G

Powerplant

Engine Type	IHI XF9 afterburning turbofan
No. of Engines	2
Thrust (each)	~15–20 tons (projected class)
Thrust Vectoring	Under consideration
Fuel Capacity	NA

Armament

Gun	TBD
Missiles (Air-to-Air)	AAM-4B, AAM-5, future long-range AAMs
Missiles (Air-to-Ground)	Precision-guided munitions (planned)
Bombs	Smart bombs (future integration)
Hardpoints	Internal + limited external
Payload Capacity	NA

Avionics & Systems

Radar	Advanced Japanese AESA
Radar Range	Estimated 200+ miles
Electronic Warfare (EW) System	Yes
Targeting System	Multi-function sensor suite
Helmet Display	Next-generation HMD
Navigation	GPS/INS
Autopilot / AI Assistance	AI-enabled flight support
Communication	Secure data link, network-centric

Stealth & Technology

Radar Cross Section (RCS)	Very Low (Estimated)
Stealth Features	Shaping, RAM coatings, internal bays
Infrared Signature Reduction	Yes
Sensor Fusion	Multi-sensor fusion suite
Networking Capabilities	Advanced data link with allies

Variants

Special Export Versions

Not confirmed

Operational History

Major Conflicts / Deployments	Not yet operational
Notable Operators	Japan
Combat Proven?	No
Mission Types	Air dominance, interception, deterrence

Cost & Program

Unit Cost	Estimated $120–150+ million
Development Cost	Approx. $40+ billion (program target)
Program Name	F-X / F-3 Program
Funding Countries	Japan

Additional Information

Upgrades Planned	Directed energy weapons, AI evolution
Future Replacement	F-15J flee
Export Restrictions	Likely limited
Notable Achievements	Next-gen stealth + AI development
Competitors	NGAD (US), FCAS (EU), K-FX, J-20 (China)

Our Rating

The overall rating is based on review by our experts

Technology 8 / 10
Performance 8 / 10
Firepower 8 / 10
Range & Endurance 8 / 10
Reliability & Maintenance 8 / 10

PROS

Advanced stealth shaping with reduced radar and IR signature
Powerful twin-engine design for improved thrust and range
AI-enhanced avionics and sensor fusion
Long-range AESA radar with EW capabilities
Designed for future weapons integration

CONS

Still in development; final specs may change
High estimated cost compared to current fighters
Limited export potential
Requires extensive new infrastructure
Dependent on future technology readiness

F-3 Shinshin Stealth Air Superiority Fighter

The F-3 Shinshin represents Japan’s bold leap into next-generation air dominance, developed to counter rising regional threats and ensure long-term sovereignty in the Indo-Pacific. Designed jointly by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) and the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF), the F-3—often associated with the X-2 Shinshin technology demonstrator—integrates cutting-edge stealth, artificial intelligence, and sensor fusion that rival future sixth-generation platforms.

The F-3 program focuses on delivering a fighter optimized for air superiority, long-range engagements, and survivability in highly contested environments. Its airframe is built around advanced low-observable shaping, radar-absorbent materials, and a reduced infrared signature. Japan’s new AESA radar with multi-function capability is expected to provide powerful detection range, electronic warfare features, and cooperative targeting with allied forces.

Powered by twin IHI XF9 engines, the F-3 aims for high thrust output, supercruise ability, and improved thermal management to support directed-energy weapons and advanced sensors. While still in development, the aircraft is projected to carry a large internal weapons bay for beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles, precision air-to-ground munitions, and next-generation Japanese-made missiles such as the AAM-5 and AAM-4B.

For U.S. readers, the F-3 Shinshin serves as Japan’s equivalent to the future U.S. NGAD concept—an aircraft designed not only for stealth and lethality but also for long-term battlefield networking. Its development underscores Japan’s commitment to maintaining a technological edge and deepening defense cooperation with the United States.

F-3 Shinshin Stealth Air Superiority Fighter Price in US

The F-3 Shinshin is still under development, and no official unit cost is confirmed. However, estimates suggest a price range exceeding $120–150 million per aircraft, reflecting its next-generation technologies and Japan’s high-end defense manufacturing standards.

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