Two Japan policy experts have written an excellent piece for the Japan Times on the F-22 export issue. The idea of exporting F-22s to Tokyo was thought to have died two years ago, but suddenly revived in the past six weeks even as the F-22 production line's survival is in doubt. But the Japan Times op/ed suggests the ongoing debate may be driven as much by domestic politics in Japan as any security issues. 

Hurdles to a Japanese F-22

By WESTON S. KONISHI and ROBERT DUJARRIC

Special to The Japan Times

North Korea's return to saber-rattling has brought military affairs back to the top of the Japan-U.S. agenda. As many Japanese continue to have -- unfounded -- doubts about the commitment of the Obama administration to the bilateral alliance, they are pushing for Washington to allow Japan to purchase America's most advanced fighter aircraft, the F-22 Raptor.

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