U.S.-Japan FS-X Codevelopment Program
Abstract
I am pleased to be here today to discuss our review of the proposed FS-X codevelopment program between the U.S. government and the government of Japan. We initiated our review at the request of Senators Helms, Dixon, Bingaman, and Ford and focused on assessing the government-to-government and commercial licensing agreements, assessing U.S. and Japanese composite and radar technologies and analyzing cost data. The FS-X will be a Japanese-designed fighter aircraft based on the current U.S. F-16. It will be significantly modified to meet specific Japanese military requirements. The program that is under review by the Congress is limited to the development phase of the FS-X. During this phase, Japan will build, with U.S. assistance, six prototype aircraft-- two for ground testing and four for flight testing. General Dynamics and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries are the two principal contractors responsible for developing the FS-X. If Japan decides to proceed with the program, a separate production agreement will be negotiated.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 16, 1989
- Accession Number
- AD1152119
Entities
People
- Frank C. Conahan
Organizations
- United States Government Accountability Office