Mitsubishi F-3 (japanese YF-22 Copy)

[Spey_Phantom]

Back History:

with the US refusing to sell the F-22A to Japan, Lockheed decided to team up with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to develop a new version of the F-22 destined for export to the JASDF, the design was practicly a copy of the YF-22, the developmental prototype that lead to the F-22A. the aircraft (designated as YF-22J in the US and F-3A in Japan) was basicly similar in capabilities to the US production F-22, but has some differences.

deferences with the YF-22J/F-3A and the F-22A were:
-a more compact design, dimension similar to the YF-22
-an RCS similar to the Export models of the F-35A
-tailored to handle Japanese indigenous weapons
-a shorter range compared to the F-22A
-30% lower price then the F-22A

however to obtain this export version, compared to the original F-22A design,it had make some sacrifices.
in order for it to carry the required electronics, the internal fuel capacity is lower, this problem also decreased range by 20% of the raptor. another flaw was that decause of the narrower YF-22 like airframe, internal weapons capability was reduced from 6 AIM-120 to 4, but the aircraft still retained its 2 AIM-9 bays behind the intakes. the Radar was another sesitive part the US didnt wanna export, so Lockheed-Martin replaced it with an APG-79 AESA radar, as that on the Super Hornet.
dispite the shortcomings, the F-3 was still a formidable fighter and still holds the basic F-22A's cat-like agility, TVC engines and Stealth capability.

the JASDF placed an order for 60 F-3A, and also ordered 20 F-3B 2-seat trainer/attackers. in service they are codenamed Raptor-Zen.

The Model:

the model is a 1/144 revell YF-22 build straight from the box, only i replaced the AMRAAM launch rails and fitted 2 spare amraam/skyflash like misiles from a 1/144 EF Typhoon. decals are from a revell 1/144 F-4E/J Phantom.
it took me only 3 hours to build, paint and decal this aircraft.

[D-Angle]

Very nice, especially that quickly at that scale. Like the backstory too.

[nev]

awww, its so ickle and cute

[gunfighter]

VERY NICE! Sure a downgraded raptor could find lots of foreign customers that by now are limited to typhoon/Rafale/Super Hornet/Gripen. It could also provide funds for domestic full capability raptors in the USA.

[cthulhu77]

Only one problem:  it makes too much sense.   *chuckle*   

[Taiidantomcat]

Gooood Lookin