Kawasaki T-4

Summary

Description

During November 1981, Kawasaki was selected as the main contractor to design and manufacture a suitable trainer aircraft, initially designated as the KA-850, to meet the needs of Japan's MT-X program. The MT-X program was launched to procure a replacement for the aging Lockheed T-33 and Fuji T-1 jet trainer aircraft, and to take over some of the syllabus of the Mitsubishi T-2. The initial program planned for entry into service in 1988. Kawasaki's design team, headed by Kohki Isozaki, worked closely with the Japanese defense agency to produce a design that could handle a range of transonic aerodynamic effects, achieve high maneuverability, maintain low operating costs, and provide high reliability. Easy handling was required for trainees. The design also incorporated the first all-Japanese production turbofan engine, the Ishikawajima-Harima F3-IHI-30. The twin-engine configuration was chosen for safety. A robust structure with limited use of composite materials like carbon fiber and kevlar was specified, and extensive use of CAD/CAM techniques contributed to a certified lifespan of 7,500 flight hours. The first XT-4 prototype flew on 29 July 1985, and the first production aircraft was delivered during September 1988.

The Kawasaki T-4 is a twin-engined aircraft powered by a pair of Ishikawajima-Harima-built F3-IHI-30 turbofan units, which generate up to 15.7 kN (3,520 lbf) of thrust each. Its airframe is largely composed of conventional aluminum alloys, along with some composite materials. The structure is strong enough to enable high-g maneuvers, up to 7.33g in a clean configuration. It has a thick-section transonic aerofoil and compact leading-edge root extensions (LERX) just forward of its wings along the forward fuselage to enhance high-g departure tendencies and avoid the need for vortex generators. The avionics are digital and largely indigenously produced, with some base technologies from American industries. While most onboard systems are conventional, it uses a licensed onboard oxygen generation system (OBOGS). A British-sourced artificial feel system is also used, with locally manufactured components.

The standard T-4 features five hard points, four underwing and one under the fuselage, enabling the installation of various air-to-air missiles, bombs, drop tanks, practice bombs, and a gun pod, as well as target towing equipment.

The Kawasaki T-4 has been operated exclusively by the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) due to historic restrictions on exporting military hardware. Its primary role is intermediate jet training, bridging the gap between basic trainers and advanced fighter aircraft. Beyond training, the T-4 serves in liaison duties with most fighter units, facilitating communication and coordination. A highly visible role is its use by the JASDF's Blue Impulse aerobatic team since 1995, showcasing the aircraft's maneuverability and the skill of Japanese pilots. Fighter units within the JASDF also utilize the T-4 as a trainer and for general liaison purposes. Accident data indicates a number of losses and incidents throughout its service, including fatal crashes and collisions involving the Blue Impulse team, leading to temporary suspensions of aerobatic training.

Main Variants:

• XT-4: This was the prototype version of the T-4, with four aircraft being manufactured to conduct flight testing and system evaluation.

• T-4: This is the primary production variant, serving as a jet trainer and liaison aircraft for the Japan Air Self-Defense Force.

Technical specifications

Current operating countries

Country		Units
	Japan	200

Numbers in parentheses, e.g. '(+5)', indicate units ordered but not yet delivered.

All operators

Japan