JASDF, ATLA, Start EC-2 Stand-Off Jammer Flight Testing
By Richard Scott
The Japan Air Self-Defense Force’s (JASDF’s) new EC-2 stand-off electronic warfare aircraft has completed its maiden flight.
Based on the existing Kawasaki C-2 twin-jet military airlifter, the EC-2 is equipped with a new high-power electronic attack payload designed to disrupt radars and communications. The first flight milestone, undertaken from Gifu Air Base on March 17, was performed by the JASDF Air Development and Test Command in coordination with the Ministry of Defense’s Acquisition, Technology and Logistics Agency (ATLA).
Development of the EC-2 began in 2021. Converted from the first production-standard C-2 airframe 68-1203, the EC-2 development aircraft is immediately distinguishable by its bulbous “platypus” nose, large antenna fairings either side of the aft fuselage, and two large radomes atop the fuselage.
The JASDF had previously operated a single EC-1 stand-off jamming aircraft, but this was retired last year. The force is now looking to acquire up to four EC-2 aircraft to recover and enhance its airborne electronic attack capability.
The first EC-2 aircraft is expected to complete flight testing in fiscal year 2026 (ending on March 31, 2027). According to ATLA, the aircraft is scheduled to enter service in fiscal year 2027.
