Japanese specialized electronic warfare aircraft EC-2 SOJ (Stand-Off Jammer) from Kawasaki Heavy Industries (during testing has XEC-2 index) rightfully holds title of most kawaii (from Japanese — cute) aircraft.
Thanks to its unique appearance and the fact it conducts test flights from Gifu airbase north of Nagoya city, it became star for local spotters.
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Now it became known when specifically these tests should be completed and aircraft will be commissioned by Japan's Air Self-Defense Forces.
As Janes learned from unnamed Japanese defense department representative, EC-2 SOJ testing will continue through end of fiscal year 2026, and it should enter service in calendar year 2027.
Defense Express notes that in Japan, as in U.S., fiscal year is offset from calendar year. But for Japanese, unlike Americans, it is shifted forward and fiscal year 2026 ends in Japan on March 31, 2027.
Meaning in spring 2027 EC-2 SOJ should complete testing, after which over following nine months it should strengthen air component of Japan's Self-Defense Forces.
Recall aircraft's appearance is connected with placement of numerous antennas and is inherited from predecessor — EC-1, which in single example was created in 1986. At same time, under nose cone making aircraft resemble platypus is aircraft's main instrument — Toshiba J/ALQ-5 EW complex.
Exact EC-2 SOJ capabilities, as well as older EC-1, are not disclosed. But among expected capabilities is suppressing radar stations of surface-to-air missile systems, fighters and AWACS aircraft at distances of hundreds of kilometers.
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