Maiden Flight of Kawasaki EC-2 SOJ Electronic Warfare Aircraft

The Kawasaki EC-2 SOJ electronic warfare aircraft completed its first successful public flight at Gifu Air Base.

Derived from the C-2 twin-jet transport, the aircraft is designed to conduct standoff electronic warfare missions by suppressing enemy surveillance and multi-function radar systems without entering the operational range of air defense missiles. Development of the EC-2 began in 2021, with the platform selected for its payload capacity, flight performance, and compatibility with existing infrastructure, according to the Japan Ministry of Defense’s Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency.

The EC-2 is equipped with active electronically scanned array antennas operating across a frequency range of 0.5 to 18–20 GHz. It can carry out multiple forms of electronic attack, including frequency-targeted jamming, range- and speed-deception jamming, and simulated jamming, aimed at disrupting enemy sensors and communications.

Based on the third production C-2 airframe, the aircraft features structural modifications, including a large nose and multiple external fairings housing electronic warfare equipment. Missile approach warning sensors are installed as part of its defensive suite, and some systems from the earlier EC-1 platform have been integrated.

Japan’s focus on such capabilities comes amid the deployment of more advanced radar systems in East Asia. The EC-2 is designed to generate high-energy jamming beams to counter modern radar threats, with assessments indicating potential reductions in detection range for certain fighter radars, while more advanced systems may offer greater resistance.

The aircraft will undergo evaluation by the Japan Air Self-Defense Force’s Aviation Development and Testing Group before entering service. It is expected to operate alongside the RC-2 signals intelligence aircraft, which supports electronic warfare missions through data collection.

Japan plans to procure four EC-2 aircraft. The program has been allocated approximately 41.4 billion yen, with unit costs expected to exceed $250 million due to added electronic warfare systems and modifications.