Kawasaki C-1

The Kawasaki C‑1 is a twin‑engine, short‑range military transport aircraft developed and built by Kawasaki Heavy Industries for the Japan Air Self‑Defense Force (JASDF). Development began in the early 1960s as Japan sought an indigenous replacement for the aging Douglas C‑54 and for a platform that could operate from the country’s limited airfields. The prototype first flew on 23 March 1970 and series production started in 1975; a total of 112 aircraft were delivered between 1979 and 1992. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney JT8D‑7 turbofan engines, the C‑1 offers a maximum payload of roughly 20 tonnes and a range of about 1 800 km with a full load, while its high‑wing configuration, robust landing gear and reinforced fuselage allow operation from short, unpaved runways. Avionics include a modernised flight‑management system and reinforced communications for joint operations. The C‑1 has been the backbone of Japan’s tactical airlift capability, supporting disaster‑relief missions, humanitarian assistance and the rapid deployment of troops and equipment within the Asia‑Pacific region. Its successful service paved the way for the newer Kawasaki C‑2, demonstrating Japan’s ability to design and produce strategic transport aircraft.

Kawasaki Heavy Industries

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