Japan: RF-4EJ will remain in service somewhat longer...

[Stratofreighter]

...as a contract to replace them with added reconnaissance capabilities to F-15Js will now be cancelled...

http://mdn.mainichi.jp/mdnnews/news/201 ... 5000c.html

TOKYO (Kyodo) -- The Defense Ministry said Friday it has decided not to
allow Toshiba Corp. to delay the delivery of an F-15 fighter after adding
reconnaissance functions.

Negotiations are under way to cancel the contract, the ministry said.

Under a package of contracts signed in fiscal 2007 and 2008 in the total
amount of 10 billion yen, Toshiba is required to deliver the fighter between
September and October after adding optical and infrared cameras and other
reconnaissance devices to its bottom part.

Failing to procure necessary parts from abroad, however, Toshiba asked the
ministry for permission to delay the delivery until spring 2012.

The ministry declined the request on the grounds that Toshiba will be unable
to clear the required reconnaissance capacity in the absence of necessary
parts even if the delay is permitted, officials said.

Toshiba has received no payment under the contract yet.

As the remodeling work will not start until after fiscal 2012 at the
earliest, the ministry will continue using the existing RF-4E reconnaissance
planes.
(Mainichi Japan) October 2, 2010