Exploring Gifu Base: A Journey into the World of Fighter Jets

⚙️Gifu Base is home to a unit that handles aircraft parts, an anti-aircraft unit, and the Flight Development and Test Wing, the only unit in the Air Self-Defense Force responsible for testing aviation equipment.

🚀The F-15, a fighter jet, is considered a small aircraft compared to larger planes like the C-2. It is primarily a one-seater, but the tour offers the unique opportunity to experience a two-seater F-15.

💺The F-15 cockpit features advanced controls, including joystick maneuvering and foot pedals for yaw control. Kazari gets to try out the controls and experiences the thrill of acceleration during a simulated takeoff.

🔩The F-15 is equipped with a 900-round machine gun and missile launchers. Kazari gets a close look at these weapons, learning about their capabilities and how they are loaded and fired.

👩‍✈️The tour provides insight into the life of a fighter pilot, including the use of G-suits to prevent blood loss during high-G maneuvers and the intense training and communication required during flights.

What is the Flight Development and Test Wing?

—The Flight Development and Test Wing is a unit in the Air Self-Defense Force responsible for testing aviation equipment. It plays a crucial role in ensuring the safety and functionality of aircraft and related systems.

Can anyone experience the F-15 cockpit?

—No, the F-15 cockpit experience is unique to this tour. It offers an exclusive opportunity to sit in the cockpit, try out the controls under the guidance of a pilot, and experience the thrill of acceleration.

What weapons does the F-15 have?

—The F-15 is equipped with a 900-round machine gun and missile launchers. The machine gun can fire 100 rounds per second, while the missile launchers allow for the loading and firing of various types of missiles.

What are G-suits?

—G-suits are specialized flight suits worn by pilots to prevent blood loss during high-G maneuvers. They constrict the lower body, reducing the risk of blood pooling in the legs and preventing loss of consciousness.

How do fighter pilots communicate during flights?

—Communication is critical for fighter pilots. They use advanced radio systems and hand signals to communicate with ground control, other aircraft, and team members during flights, ensuring coordination and safety.

00:31Gifu Base is home to a unit that handles aircraft parts, an anti-aircraft unit, and the Flight Development and Test Wing, responsible for testing aviation equipment.

01:21The F-15, a fighter jet, is considered a small aircraft compared to larger planes like the C-2.

01:49Kazari gets the opportunity to sit in the F-15 cockpit and try out the controls, including joystick maneuvering and foot pedals for yaw control.

07:21Kazari explores the weaponry of the F-15, including a 900-round machine gun and missile launchers.

13:38Kazari experiences the use of G-suits, which constrict the lower body to prevent blood loss during high-G maneuvers.

15:31The tour provides a glimpse into the intense training and communication required during flights, showcasing the life of a fighter pilot.

19:19The aircraft undergoes a final check by a maintenance crew on the runway side, known as the 'last chance check.'

21:01Kazari experiences a simulated takeoff, feeling the acceleration and excitement of a real flight.