Civil registered as JA3096 on import in 1954, this one-off T-28 was acquired by the Japan Defense Agency in 1956 for technical reserach. In 1962 it was converted for reconnaissance training but suffered a heavy landing at Utsunomiya the year after. After use as an instructional airframe it went on display when the museum opened in 1999

Operated by the resident unit 302 Hikotai, Japan's Phantoms are one of the attractions bringing many enthusiasts go to this welcoming country

In immaculate condition, one of the YS-11s of the resident Hiko Tenkentai (Flight Check Sqdn), delivered to the JASDF some 50 years ago. One of my absolute favourites from this tour

First public appearance of this 501 Hikotai recon Phantom in its unique ocean camouflage, similar to that carried by the Mitsubishi F-2s

The arrival of the JASDF KC-767 at this year's RIAT marked the first time a Japanese military aircraft had ever touched down on UK soil (with the exception of the VIP 747s). One of four operated, from 404 Sqn/1st Tactical Airlift Wing, Komaki Air Base (Nagoya)

Not a type one expects to see in Japan, the JASDF received one Vampire T.55 trainer for evaluation in 1955

Japan has operated 13 Hawkeyes from Misawa AB, beginning in 1987. In November 2014, the Japanese government decided to procure E-2Ds instead of Boeing 737 AEW aircraft. These will have new avionics, improved engines, glass cockpit and potential for air-to-air refuelling

First flown in January 2010, this is the prototype transport designed to replace Japan's C-130 and C-1 fleets. 30 C-2s are planned with a 37.6t payload and to keep costs down it shares some components with the P-1 maritime patrol aircraft, although very different in appearance