- No
- Yes, in the Research Tree (After the R2Y2)
- Yes, in the Research Tree (After the Ki-83)
- Yes, as a Premium/Squadron Vehicle
History:
Background:
In the 1970s Japan began the 3rd series of the F-X program as they were seeking a future replacement for the F-104/DJ as well as some of the older F-4EJs.
Surveying:
The aircraft that the Japanese would survey (originally 13 but soon narrowed to 7) were the McDonnell Douglas F-15C/D (which would ultimately be chosen), General Dynamics’ YF-16 , Northrop’s YF-17 , Dassault’s Mirage F1 , the Saab 37 Vigen , the Panavia Tornado ADV, and finally the Grumman F-14.
Testing:
An investigation team from Japan would test the F-14, it was noted by Keiichi Ito, Director-General of the Defense Agency that the team “investigated it in exactly the same way as F16 and F15”. They also flew with the Phoenix missile system on board though it was not launched.
it was noted that there were very few issues with the engine reliability but that “the U.S. Navy has said that they would like to improve this a little more.”
The Ultimate Decision:
In the end the F-14 and the F-15 were the final contestants, the Japanese felt that both planes were equal in terms of performance and avionics, but the F-15 was considered to have an advantage in climbing power, acceleration, and dogfighting ability, it was also considered to be more cost effective.
A Last Minute Gamble:
To that end the F-15 was destined to be chosen however in an last minute attempt to turn the tide Grumman and Donnell Douglas would have a have a final sales campaign in relation to a ongoing flight demonstration with USAF F-15s vs USN F-14s.
One of the F-14s was piloted by Joe “Hoser” Satrapa, a legendary pilot in the US Navy, he would manage to “shoot down” two F-15s via gun kill.
A photo of the incident would be sent to Grumman, supposedly this convinced the Japanese to give another look at the F-14 however by then the Japanese had already made a contract for 21 F-15s.
Specifications
Type: Carrier-based air superiority fighter.
Crew: Pilot and Radar Intercept Officer
Powerplant: Two Pratt & Whitney TF30-P-412A or 414A engines of 20,900 lb. static thrust each
Dimensions
Length: 62 ft., 8 in.
Height: 16 ft.
Span (max spread): 64 ft., 1 in.
Span (fully swept): 48 ft., 2 in.
Span (overswept): 33 ft. 3 in.
Wing Area: 565 sq. ft.
Weight
Empty: 40,100 lb.
Gross: 74,349 lb.
Performance
Max Speed: 1,544 mph
Climb Rate: 30,000 ft./min.
Ceiling: 55,000 ft.
Range: 2,400 miles
Armament
M-61 20mm cannon; four AIM-7 Sparrow, four AIM-9 Sidewinder, or six AIM-54 Phoenix and two AIM-9 air-to-air missiles.
Images
Sources
https://kokkai.ndl.go.jp/txt/108005261X01919770304/114
https://kokkai.ndl.go.jp/txt/108005261X01919770304/114
HOME OF M.A.T.S. - The most comprehensive Grumman F-14 Reference Work - by Torsten Anft!
Summary:
Giving an F-14A to Japan would be great for enriching Japan’s top tier aircraft lineup.
It would give a plane with a completely different playstyle compared to the F-15J and F-16AJ and can even go in a different air tree line as the mentioned two other top tier craft take up two lines.
The interceptor/attacker lines ending with the Ki-83 and R2Y2 V3 at Battle Ratings 6.0 and 8.0 respectively could use a top tier craft that fits their niche and I believe the F-14A will do just that.