Aerospace

Japan to test first homegrown stealth jet

After seven years of development, Japan plans to test its first homegrown stealth jet as early as next month.

A prototype of the yet-to-be-named aircraft was built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and is slated to be delivered to Japan’s Ministry of Defense in March, according to Japanese broadcaster NHK. The jet features a stealth airframe and is about 46 feet long with a wingspan of about 30 feet.

Prototype tests will take place between an airfield in Aichi prefecture and a Japan Air Self-Defense Force base in Gifu prefecture in central Japan, NHK reported. The jet showcases a new technology that allows it to make adept moves in the air by changing the direction of its engine thrust.