Japan’s Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) has received its first Kongsberg Joint Strike Missiles (JSMs) for F-35A fighters, but operational deployment remains delayed due to ongoing aircraft software integration.
JASDF Chief of Staff Hiroaki Uchikura confirmed that software development on the F-35A platform is underway to enable JSM operation. “The launch platform for the JSM is the F-35A,” Uchikura stated. He added, “Currently, software development on the aircraft side necessary to operate the JSM is underway. We will continue coordinating with the U.S. government so that Japan can begin operating the JSM as soon as possible.”
The JSMs arrived in Japan via a Boeing KC-767 tanker from Norway, following Tokyo’s initial order announced by Kongsberg in March 2019 and subsequent procurements. Uchikura declined to specify a deployment timeline, citing relations with other countries, and noted Japan has not yet acquired full JSM utilization capability.
The JSM, the only internally carried combined anti-ship and land-attack weapon integrated with the F-35A, features an infrared seeker, weighs 416kg (917lb), and offers a range exceeding 150nm (277km). Its integration links to the F-35’s delayed Block 4 upgrade, building on the Technical Refresh 3 baseline.
Norway pioneered JSM deployment on F-35As, with Australia, Germany, and the USA also ordering the missile. JASDF F-35As can carry two JSMs internally; the F-35B variant cannot due to weapons bay length constraints.