Post-Izumo
Over at the Diplomat I do some thinking about what Japan might decide to build after it decides to equip its latest carriers with F-35Bs:
It now seems clear that Japan is actively considering the acquisition of F-35B fighters for use on its Izumo-class aircraft carriers. A recent LDP panel report emphasized the need for offensive capabilities, including carrier-based strike aircraft. Although the government has maintained that the purpose of the carriers will remain primarily defensive, it hasn’t escaped notice that the F-35B could transform the Izumos from sea control platforms into potentially formidable strike carriers.