Independent Capability: Proponents contend that, given the fact that the Japanese have already designed the FS-X predecessor (the F-1) and have coproduced the F-4 and F-15 fighter aircraft with McDonnell-Douglas, the Japanese have an independent capability, with time, to design and produce the FS-X.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: The US-Japan FS-X Fighter Agreement: Assessing The Stakes