Apart from ATD-X/X-2 program, Japan was already conducting researches for their future fighter development since the 2012 regarding the next gen fighter, probably a top notch 5th gen aside f-35 if it really does realize. (Which I see a lot of doubts about it)
Important thing is, these R&D programs are all independent from X-2 and has different budgetary outline, timeline and plans. Ofc, X-2 along with P-1 or C-2 is an outstanding test-bed for the results which will show up when the next gen fighter tech R&D program ends in 2019.
Anyways, the R&D compartments are :
the engine and the TVC
which they aim to develop an operational product till 2030 with thrust of 15 tons, with a diameter of 1m.
Japan got tech transfers for F110-PW-129 in exchange for the composite integral wing and fighter AESA technology. They also claim that their XF5 developed by 1998 was already above the level of F110-GE-129 or F-100-PW-220.(u knw, they r quite old) It would be a great challenge but I don't find it to be impossible.
the radar
this thing will work -ofc- as a sensor and a ecm antenna, but also as an esm and communications antenna. Thus its going to be broadband, covering bandwidths from C band to Ku band
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