Rips found in new SDF patrol jet

The Defense Ministry has discovered rips in the wings and fuselage of the P-1 next-generation Maritime Self-Defense Force patrol aircraft now under domestic development, a finding that may delay the planned delivery of four of them beyond next March.

The P-1 is the first domestically developed maritime patrol jet. It is expected to replace the P-3C Orion fleet of about 90 deployed at MSDF bases across the country.

The anticipated delay could affect the Self-Defense Forces' surveillance ability as the P-3Cs monitor the movements of foreign ships around Japan, including those of China and Russia, particularly in waters near disputed islands in the north and south.

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