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Japan Greenlights Fighter Jet Sales to other nations

Japan Greenlights Fighter Jet Sales to other nations
Image: Wikipedia

In a significant departure from its postwar pacifist stance, Japan’s Cabinet has given the green light to a plan aimed at selling future next-generation fighter jets developed in collaboration with Britain and Italy to other countries.

This decision marks a notable shift in Japan’s defense strategy, emphasizing its willingness to engage in international arms sales and bolster its role in global security. By allowing international sales of these advanced aircraft, Japan aims to enhance its technological edge in the face of escalating regional tensions, particularly from neighboring China and Russia.

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Accompanying this decision is a revision to Japan’s arms equipment and technology transfer guidelines, permitting the sale of co-produced lethal weapons to countries beyond the project’s partners. However, Tokyo emphasizes that, for the time being, exports of such weaponry will be restricted solely to the new fighter jets, slated for deployment by 2035.

Japan’s move towards arms exports, which was formerly restricted by its pacifist constitution, is a reflection of the increased urgency with which it must address threats to regional and international security, especially those posed by China. The proposed fighter jet is expected to give Japan the cutting-edge capabilities it needs to manage the rising tensions in the area and put it in a competitive position in relation to adversaries like China and Russia.

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The collaborative effort with Italy and Britain aims to develop an advanced fighter aircraft, slated to replace Japan’s aging fleet of F-2 fighters and the Eurofighter Typhoons utilized by its allies. However, this strategic move isn’t devoid of historical context. Japan’s wartime past as an aggressor, coupled with the devastation of World War II, has long shaped its constitutional limitations on military activities and arms exports.

The Japanese government has pledged to restrict the export of deadly weapons produced in collaboration with other parties, limiting sales to recently built fighter jets, in an effort to calm fears arising from its military past. Moreover, promises have been given that these weapons  will not be deployed in active conflict zones.

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Aviation

Israel vs Iran Military Power Comparison: Which country is stronger?

Explore the comparative analysis of Israel and Iran’s military capabilities. Delve into the strengths and strategic considerations of each nation to assess potential outcomes in the event of conflict.

Israel vs Iran Military Power Comparison: Which country is stronger?

In this article, we’ll delve into the power dynamics between Iran and Israel. With Israel launching multiple attacks on various Middle Eastern regions, both countries have initiated defensive measures against each other.

We’ll explore the respective features of both nations, although it’s important to note that the accuracy of the report may not align precisely with information from public domain sources.

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Global Military Index ranking

According to the Military Power Index, Iran holds the 14th position while Israel holds the 17th. This index provides a direct comparison of the armed forces of the two nations. It suggests that Iran surpasses Israel in terms of manpower, as well as in the number of tanks and armed vehicles.

In the ongoing conflict, the world is divided into two sides: Israel and Iran. Countries in the Asian region, such as Russia, the Middle East, and China, strongly support Iran, as they are its main military suppliers. On the other hand, Israel receives its main backing from the United States and European countries.

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Iran and Isreal Distance

Both countries, separated by neighboring nations like Iraq and Jordan, face a considerable distance between them. For attacks across such distances, they heavily rely on potent weaponry, especially through air-to-ground assaults.

Both possess formidable defense aircraft and military tanks, which undoubtedly influence the war’s outcome.

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Given that the distance between Jerusalem and Tehran is approximately 1,850 kilometers (1,149 miles), conducting attacks over such long distances requires aircraft with extensive flying ranges.

Israel may lack the inherent power to reach Iran directly, necessitating mid-air refueling or the use of long-range missiles to execute such operations.

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Which military is stronger Israel or Iran?


In terms of Israel, it boasts advanced technology in the defense sector, with a strong focus on both business and innovation. It serves as a key supplier of guided rockets and various critical weapons to the defense market. Many domestically-built military tankers and advanced weaponry have proven their efficacy on the battlefield.

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Israel stands out as a significant defense equipment supplier, particularly due to strong support from NATO countries like the US, Europe, and the UK. This backing provides access to the most advanced fighter jets and technologies, including 5th-generation fighters.

Israel vs Iran Military Power Comparison: Which country is stronger?
Army Military Apache Helicopter Attack Chopper

Conversely, Iran faces challenges in acquiring the latest weaponry, relying heavily on Russian and Chinese technology, along with seized equipment from Iraq and Afghanistan, predominantly sourced from the United States.

Iran’s domestic development of aircraft has been limited, and maintenance is hindered by parts shortages. Additionally, disruptions in supply chains, particularly due to the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, pose significant hurdles for Iran in acquiring military equipment.

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However, Iran has made upgrades, particularly in ground-to-air attack munitions procured from Russia. These include long-range ballistic missiles capable of inflicting heavy damage on enemy territory.

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How many fighter jets are in Israel & Iran?


When comparing air attack capabilities, Israel’s air force surpasses Iran’s in terms of aircraft quantity. According to the Global Firepower Index, Israel holds a clear advantage in air power. The Israeli army boasts a total of 612 fighter jets, whereas Iran possesses 551.

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Israel operates a fleet of 75 Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II aircraft. Additionally, they possess 58 Boeing F-15 Eagle jets. Moreover, Israel has 25 Boeing F-15E Strike Eagle aircraft in its arsenal.

Israel vs Iran Military Power Comparison: Which country is stronger?

Furthermore, the Israeli Air Force boasts 343 General Dynamics F-16 Fighting Falcon jets. Lastly, they maintain a fleet of 30 Boeing AH-64 Apache helicopters.

Israel possesses numerous advanced fighter jets and military aircraft equipped with some of the most lethal weapons available.

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Iran’s fighter aircraft inventory includes the Mikoyan MiG-29 acquired in 1991, 40 Grumman F-14 Tomcats, 20 Su-22s, 24 Chengdu J-7s, 23 Mirage F1s, and 60 McDonnell Douglas F-4 Phantom IIs, showcasing its commitment to diverse defense capabilities.


Iran’s inventory primarily consists of outdated aircraft, many of which are around 20 years old. However, according to the Iran Defense Ministry, all aircraft are reportedly in good condition and deemed capable of meeting the challenges of any conflict

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Iran’s and Israel’s Military Capabilities and personnel

According to the latest report, Israel’s active personnel count stands at 169,500, with an additional 465,000 individuals in reserve. Israel implements a significant policy whereby most young citizens are mandated to join the defense forces for several years to acquire skill sets essential for serving as reserved forces, ready to mobilize whenever required for defensive or offensive operations.

In comparison to Israel, Iran boasts a larger ground forces personnel count. Iran’s military comprises approximately 610,000 active-duty personnel, supplemented by 350,000 reserve and trained individuals available for mobilization as necessary.

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This substantial manpower brings Iran’s total military strength to roughly 960,000 personnel, excluding figures for the Law Enforcement Command or Basij.

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Does Israel have an air defense system?


Israel has developed some of the most advanced air defense systems globally, a response to the consistent threat of attacks from neighboring nations. The Iron Dome, renowned for its effectiveness, stands out as a prime example.

This smart air defense system has successfully intercepted numerous unexpected attacks on Israeli soil, with its capability to destroy incoming missiles mid-flight. Operating on constant alert, the Iron Dome swiftly neutralizes threats whenever they arise within the country’s borders.

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Furthermore, Israel has invested heavily in enhancing its defense radar systems, enabling early detection of enemy activities from considerable distances. Pioneering in drone technology, Israel boasts the Heron pilotless planes, capable of enduring flights lasting over 30 hours, facilitating operations even in remote locations.

Additionally, Israel’s Delilah loitering munition, with an approximate range of 250 km (155 miles), though limited for operations beyond the Gulf, can be strategically deployed closer to Iran’s border by the Israeli Air Force, bridging the distance gap effectively.

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Iran has collaborated with Russia and China to develop several air defense systems, bolstering its capabilities. Among these systems are multiple medium-range defense systems, such as the Arman, Tactical Sayyad, and Khordad-15. These systems are designed to safeguard Iranian airspace from threats at distances of up to 200 km (124 miles) and varying altitudes.

One notable system, the Arman, was unveiled in November 2022. It is strategically mounted on military trucks, enabling swift deployment within minutes to address potential threats effectively.

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Defence

Major setback for India’s Tejas and China’s JF-17 in Argentina’s Fighter Jet Deal

Major setback for India's Tejas and China's JF-17 in Argentina's Fighter Jet Deal

Argentina has finalized an agreement to purchase 24 F-16 jets from Denmark for approximately $300 million, as announced by the government on Tuesday. The deal also encompasses four flight simulators, eight engines, and spare parts for a five-year period.

This marks a significant stride in Argentina’s air force modernization efforts, with the official signing conducted by Argentinian Minister of Defense Luis Petri. The F-16A/B Fighting Falcon Multi-role Lightweight fighters, formerly in service with Denmark, will bolster Argentina’s aerial capabilities.

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Denmark’s decision to sell its aging F-16 aircraft comes as part of its plan to transition to F35 aircraft in its fleet. This move received approval from the USA, allowing Denmark to proceed with the sale and provide further upgrades and simulator support. The aircraft were sold at a competitive price compared to other contenders in the tender process, including India and China.

In a collaborative effort with allies, Denmark has generously donated 19 F-16s to support Ukraine’s pursuit of freedom, while simultaneously forging valuable ties with Argentina through the sale of 24 aircraft.

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This strategic move by Argentina follows careful consideration of offers for the Indian-made LCA Tejas and the Chinese JF-17. However, the former Danish F-16s emerged as the preferred choice due to their appealing price tag, reportedly less than $24 million per unit. This competitive pricing played a pivotal role in Argentina’s decision-making process.

The signing ceremony not only formalized the deal but also marked the debut of the first Argentinian F-16, symbolizing a significant milestone in the integration of these aircraft into the nation’s air defense framework.

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Beyond the fighter jets themselves, Argentina has also secured a comprehensive package including AIM-9X Sidewinder short-range air-to-air missiles and AIM-120D AMRAAM beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles. These advanced weapon systems will substantially augment Argentina’s offensive and defensive capabilities.

The acquisition of these F-16s heralds a considerable enhancement in Argentina’s airpower. With modern, well-equipped jets and advanced weaponry, the Argentinian Air Force gains a substantial advantage in safeguarding its airspace. This deal underscores Argentina’s dedication to military modernization and the preservation of its defense capabilities.

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Defence

Philippines in Talks to Procure India’s LCH Prachand Helicopter

Philippines in Talks to Procure India's LCH Prachand Helicopter

In a significant stride towards bolstering India’s aerospace prowess on the global stage, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is on the brink of clinching a breakthrough deal with the Philippines for its formidable Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) named “Prachand.”

The LCH, a formidable airborne asset boasting advanced weaponry and battle-tested capabilities, has garnered substantial interest from international buyers, with the Philippines emerging as a promising lead.

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Despite the formidable competition in the international market, HAL’s Chief Managing Director, CB Ananthakrishnan, exudes confidence in securing this pivotal contract, underscoring the LCH’s unparalleled performance and appeal in its category. The Philippines, in particular, has expressed keen interest in acquiring the LCH, recognizing its comprehensive capabilities tailored to modern combat exigencies.

HAL’s endeavors to diversify its portfolio and expand its global footprint have gained traction, with discussions progressing swiftly with other potential buyers like Egypt and Nigeria. The recent momentum in negotiations with Nigeria augurs well for HAL’s ambitions to secure breakthrough orders, buoyed by collaborative efforts between the aerospace giant and government initiatives.

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Anticipating a surge in demand, HAL has proactively augmented its manufacturing capabilities, poised to ramp up production from 8 to 16 aircraft annually. With the impending completion of its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Nasik by 2025, HAL aims to further bolster its output to 24 aircraft per year, a testament to its commitment to meeting burgeoning market demands.

The recent milestone of securing the inaugural international order for Indian-built Dornier Aircraft, delivered to the Guyana Defense Forces, underscores India’s burgeoning role as a reliable partner in global defense collaborations. Facilitated by financial assistance from India, this transaction not only fortifies bilateral ties between India and Guyana but also underscores the growing confidence in India’s indigenous aerospace capabilities.

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