Japan has set its sights on reclaiming its position as a leader in the aviation industry with the unveiling of a new vision for developing a next-generation passenger jet. This announcement comes after setbacks and delays, including the discontinuation of a privately led venture last year.
Now, Japan is rallying both public and private sectors for a nationwide effort to spearhead the creation of cutting-edge aircraft that incorporate innovative environmental technologies like hydrogen fuel or hybrid-electric propulsion systems.
The Ministry of Economy, Trade, and Industry has emphasized Japan’s commitment to decarbonizing the air transport sector. The goal is clear: to build next-generation aircraft based on competitive Japanese technologies while contributing to the global push for environmental sustainability.
With a target completion date set for post-2035, the project requires a substantial investment of five trillion yen ($33 billion) over the next decade. This investment will fuel crucial research and development efforts.
“It is our mission to take full advantage of know-how and experiences (gained from the regional jet project),” said Kazuchika Iwata, a senior vice minister of the industry ministry, who attended the panel meeting that drew up the strategy. He also said “For the Japanese aircraft industry to achieve sustainable growth, we cannot stay satisfied with our position as a parts supplier,”
Japan aims to learn from past challenges, particularly those faced by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) when its passenger jet project was discontinued in 2023. Kazuchika Iwata, state minister for economy, trade, and Industry, highlighted the importance of not merely being content as parts suppliers but striving for sustainable growth through innovative initiatives like hydrogen propulsion.
While hydrogen fuel presents a promising alternative due to its lack of carbon emissions, there are concerns about the feasibility of sourcing “green” hydrogen sustainably. Critics also point out the significant cost and complexity of previous jet projects.
However, despite potential obstacles, the vision for a hydrogen-powered aircraft holds immense promise. Success in this endeavor would not only contribute to environmental sustainability but also position Japan as an industry leader in the rapidly evolving aviation sector.
“Japan needs to dive into profitable and value providing territories other than providing some parts for the airline industry,” Masuo Kuremura, director of the ministry’s aerospace and defense industry division, said during a briefing.
The government’s aircraft industry strategy aims to mobilize significant investment toward decarbonizing the entire sector by 2050. The new aircraft, expected to be fueled by hydrogen among other options, represents a departure from traditional jet oil as the world moves towards cleaner transport solutions.
The failure of Mitsubishi Heavy’s previous regional jet project underscores the importance of collaboration and engagement. The new aircraft development project will involve multiple companies instead of relying solely on a single firm, marking a shift in strategy.
“We will need to build new technology” and collaborate with foreign OEMs, Kuremura said.
The latest project will bring together a diverse range of players, including automakers Subaru Corp., Mitsubishi Heavy, and Kawasaki Heavy Industries Ltd., along with heavy machinery maker IHI Corp. and Japan’s space agency. This collaborative approach emphasizes the need for new technologies and partnerships with foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) to ensure success.
