Transport Aircraft
Kawasaki C-2
The Kawasaki C-2 is a twin-jet military transport built by Kawasaki Heavy Industries in Japan, in service with the JASDF since 2016. It replaces the C-1 and part of the C-130H fleet, and is much larger than the C-130.
Japan|Kawasaki Heavy IndustriesOverview
Kawasaki developed the C-2 as the XC-2, which first flew on 26 January 2010. Fatigue-test structural problems caused delays, and it entered JASDF service on 30 March 2016. Two General Electric CF6-80C2K1F turbofans of about 265 kN each give a cruise speed near Mach 0.82 and a ceiling of about 13,100 m. The hold is about 16 m long and can carry vehicles such as the Type 16 manoeuvre combat vehicle and a UH-60 helicopter. Maximum take-off weight is about 141 tonnes.
The C-2 carries up to 36 tonnes, and 26 tonnes is typical on long missions. Range is about 4,500 km with 20 tonnes, with a ferry range around 9,800 km, and it can operate from runways of roughly 500 to 900 m. About 20 aircraft were planned for the JASDF, and a tanker and electronic warfare variants are being developed. Kawasaki has offered it abroad, but New Zealand chose the C-130J-30 in 2022 and there is no export customer. Japan is the only operator.
Key Specifications
Variants
The C-2 is the standard JASDF transport aircraft that replaces the C-1.
The C-2 (EW) refers to the electronic warfare variant under development.
The C-2 (tanker) is a tanker and transport variant being developed.
Operators
JapanFrequently Asked Questions
How much does the Kawasaki C-2 cost?
The Kawasaki C-2 costs an estimated 120 to 150 million US dollars per aircraft. This is a hedged estimate and not an official list price.
How much can the Kawasaki C-2 carry?
The Kawasaki C-2 can carry about 36 tonnes at maximum, with 26 tonnes typical on long-range missions. Its cargo hold is about 16 m long and holds vehicles such as the Type 16 combat vehicle.
What is the range of the C-2?
The Kawasaki C-2 has a range of about 4,500 km with a 20-tonne payload. Its ferry range is about 9,800 km, which is an approximate figure.
C-2 vs C-130: what is the difference?
The Kawasaki C-2 is a twin-jet transport that is much larger than the C-130, with a 36-tonne payload and a speed near Mach 0.82. It sits closer to the Il-76 class, while the turboprop C-130 is smaller.
Which countries use the Kawasaki C-2?
Japan is the only country that operates the Kawasaki C-2, with about 20 aircraft planned for the JASDF. There is no export customer, and the UAE showed interest in the past without ordering.
Is the C-2 a jet?
The Kawasaki C-2 is a twin-jet transport powered by two CF6-80C2K1F turbofans. It cruises at about Mach 0.82 and can use short runways of roughly 500 to 900 m.