Honeywell Proposes F124 Engine for Japan’s Air Self-Defense Force Modernisation Plans
Honeywell Aerospace Technologies has announced a significant proposal to support Japan’s defence modernisation efforts with its advanced F124 turbofan engine. The announcement was made on 28 May 2025, as Honeywell expressed interest in equipping upcoming Japanese military aircraft with its proven engine technology.
This proposal comes at a time when Japan is actively working to upgrade its aerial defence capabilities through multiple programmes. Notably, the F124 engine is being considered for the replacement of the ageing T-4 trainer aircraft and for powering the country’s future Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA) — a project that aims to develop next-generation unmanned and manned aerial combat systems.
About the Honeywell F124 Engine
The Honeywell F124 is a modern, non-afterburning turbofan engine known for its impressive thrust-to-weight ratio and highly reliable performance. Currently used in platforms like the Leonardo M346 advanced jet trainer, the F124 has built a reputation for efficiency, safety, and minimal maintenance needs.
One of the key strengths of the F124 engine lies in its modular design, which simplifies maintenance and reduces downtime for operators. It’s equipped with a Full Authority Digital Electronic Control (FADEC) system, ensuring precise engine management and optimised performance under various conditions.
The engine also integrates an advanced Engine Monitoring System (EMS) that tracks engine health, enhances safety, and extends operational life by predicting maintenance needs before issues arise.
Unlike some traditional military jet engines, the F124 operates without an afterburner, which helps to lower fuel consumption and operational costs while still delivering excellent thrust levels suitable for both training and combat missions.
F124 Engine Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Type | Non-afterburning Turbofan Engine |
| Maximum Thrust | Approx. 28 kN (6,250 lbf) |
| Length | 3.3 meters (10.8 ft) |
| Diameter | 0.88 meters (2.9 ft) |
| Dry Weight | 640 kg (1,410 lb) |
| Thrust-to-Weight Ratio | High, among best in its class |
| Control System | Full Authority Digital Electronic Control (FADEC) |
| Engine Monitoring | Integrated Engine Monitoring System (EMS) |
| Fuel Consumption | Lower than traditional military engines due to non-afterburning design |
| Flight Hours Logged | Over 1 million |
| Applications | Leonardo M346 trainer, proposed for Japan’s T-4 replacement, future CCA programme |
Supporting Japan’s Defence Modernisation
As Japan accelerates its efforts to modernise the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF), the need for reliable, efficient, and future-ready engine technologies has become critical. Honeywell’s Vice President of Defense for Asia Pacific, Sathesh Ramiah, highlighted the importance of this proposal, stating that Honeywell is ready to support Japan’s evolving aerial defence needs through the proven capabilities of the F124 engine.
With a strong track record, over a million flight hours in service, and adaptability for both manned and unmanned systems, the F124 stands as a strong candidate to help Japan enhance its defence readiness. Its suitability for both advanced trainers and collaborative combat aircraft aligns well with the future operational strategies envisioned by the JASDF.
