DSEI Japan 2025: MHI unveils next-generation trainer aircraft concept

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries unveiled a conceptual model of its T-X training aircraft at the DSEI Japan 2025 show in Chiba. (Janes/Oishee Majumdar)

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) has unveiled a conceptual model of a next-generation training aircraft, named T-X, at the DSEI Japan 2025 show held in Chiba from 21 to 23 May.

An MHI official told Janes that the T-X will be developed to provide operational training to Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) personnel on fifth- and sixth-generation fighter aircraft such as the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II and the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) aircraft respectively.

The T-X is intended to replace the JASDF's Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) T-4 intermediate/advanced jet trainer aircraft, the official added. The official said the T-X will be a two-seat, twin-engine platform with a more “advanced cockpit system” compared with the T-4. The T-X's cockpit will have touch panels and a more interactive display compared with the T-4.

“T-X will also feature an embedded simulation function that will train pilots to evade threats including missiles and radars,” the official added.

MHI intends to present the T-X concept to the Japan Ministry of Defense (MoD) “soon”, the official said.

For more information, please see Japan weighs up scope of T-6 trainer procurement .