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MHI Conducts First Flight of "X-2"Advanced Technology Demonstrator

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Tokyo, April 22, 2016 - On April 22 / Today Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd. (MHI) successfully completed the maiden flight of the "X-2," an advanced technology demonstrator jet.

The aircraft took off from Nagoya Airport and went through a series of trials to confirm basic maneuvers including climbing, descent and circling operations. It then landed at the Japan Air Self-Defense Force’s Gifu Air Base.

After completing the maiden flight, the pilot, from MHI, described the flight experience as "extremely stable." "Control of the aircraft went exactly as in our simulated training sessions," he said, "and after piloting the aircraft I’m 100% positive the X-2 is magnificent and will meet the Ministry of Defense’s requirements."

The X-2 is a prototype stealth aircraft - the first in Japan to feature technology impeding its detection by radar - engineered for extremely high maneuverability. The prototype integrates an airframe, engines, and other advanced systems and equipment all adaptable to future fighters.

As the coordinating company of the X-2 development project, MHI has been developing the aircraft’s airframe since 2009 with cooperation provided by 220 domestic companies and guidance from Japan’s Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA). In this way, world-class cutting-edge technologies developed in Japan are featured throughout the prototype unit.

Going forward MHI will continue to develop, manufacture and support the operation of defense aircraft incorporating the world’s leading technologies, thereby contributing to Japan’s national security.


About MHI Group

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) Group is one of the world’s leading industrial groups, spanning energy, smart infrastructure, industrial machinery, aerospace and defense. MHI Group combines cutting-edge technology with deep experience to deliver innovative, integrated solutions that help to realize a carbon neutral world, improve the quality of life and ensure a safer world. For more information, please visit www.mhi.com or follow our insights and stories on spectra.mhi.com.