25 April 2016

News Story: Prototype Japanese stealth fighter makes maiden flight

by Richard Tomkins

A stealth fighter by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries conducted its maiden flight Friday in Japan.

The X-2 prototype took off from Nagoya Airport and went through a series of trials to confirm basic maneuvers -- including climbing, descent and circling operations – before terminating the 23-minute flight at the Japan Air Self-Defense Force's Gifu Air Base, the company said.

"Control of the aircraft went exactly as in our simulated training sessions," said the unidentified pilot, "and after piloting the aircraft I'm 100 percent positive the X-2 is magnificent and will meet the Ministry of Defense's requirements."

Read the full story at SpaceDaily