Japan Requests $170 Million Support for its KC-130R Aircraft

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified U.S. Congress Feb. 16 of a possible Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Japan to provide regeneration, overhaul, modifications and support for 6 KC-130R aircraft and associated engines for an estimated cost of $170 million. 

The Government of Japan has requested a possible sale to provide 6 KC-130R and 30 T-56-A-16 engines being provided as Excess Defense Articles (EDA), along with the regeneration, overhaul, modifications, and logistics support for those engines. Also included are 6 non-EDA spare T-56-A-16 engines, 6 AN/APS-133 Radars, 9 AN/APX-119 Transponder Systems (6 installed and 3 spares), transportation, aircraft ferry support, repair and return, spare and repair parts, support equipment, tools and test equipment, technical data and publications, personnel training and training equipment, U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistics support. The estimated cost is $170 million. The EDA portion of this sale is also being notified separately as required by statute. 


Japan is one of the major political and economic powers in East Asia and the Western Pacific and a key ally of the United States in ensuring the peace and stability of this region. The U.S. Government shares bases and facilities in Japan. This proposed sale is consistent with these U.S. objectives and with the 1960 Treaty of Mutual Cooperation and Security. 

The proposed sale of aircraft and support will help to modernize the Japanese Defense Force’s aging cargo aircraft fleet. The KC-130 will provide Japan with an improved capability for the movement of cargo and personnel in humanitarian missions. 


The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region. The prime contractor for training will be CAE, Inc in Tampa, Florida. The regeneration, overhaul, and modifications will be accomplished by U.S. Government personnel. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale. 

Implementation of this proposed sale will require U.S. Government personnel to Japan on a temporary basis to support aircraft deliveries, technical assistance, technical and program reviews, and training. There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale. This notice of a potential sale is required by law and does not mean the sale has been concluded.