🇯🇵 Kawasaki EC-1 — The "Hunchback of Iruma"

— A rare and specialized asset of the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF), the Kawasaki EC-1 is a one-off electronic warfare (EW) platform. Converted from the C-1 transport, it serves as a critical training and jamming asset for the Electronic Warfare Squadron at Iruma Air Base.

🔹 Type: Electronic Warfare (EW) / Jamming Training Aircraft.

🔹 Performance:

Engines: Twin Mitsubishi-built Pratt & Whitney JT8D-M-9 turbofans.

Speed: Max speed of ~800 km/h.

Distinction: Instantly recognizable by its bulbous black nose, tail radome, and several fuselage bulges housing advanced sensors.

🔹 Mission Profile:

Radar Jamming: Equipped with the domestic XJ/ALQ-5 ECM suite and Toshiba ELINT systems to disrupt enemy signals.

🔹 Status: As the C-1 fleet nears total retirement by the end of FY2024, this legendary aircraft is being succeeded by the much larger and more capable RC-2 (based on the Kawasaki C-2).

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