Shin Meiwa US-2 is a modern Japanese flying boat. The first prototypes of the machine were created in 2003, and serial production started in 2007 and is still ongoing. The drive is provided by four Rolls-Royce AE2100J turboprop engines with a capacity of 4592 KM each. The aircraft can reach a maximum speed of 560 km / h, and its maximum range is 4,700 kilometers. The machine has no fixed armament.
Shin Meiwa US-2 was commissioned by the Japanese Air Force, which at the beginning of the 21st century reported a need for a completely new flying boat capable of rescue operations in open sea areas. The machine was to replace the aging Shin Meiwa US-1 / US-1A machines in the line. It is worth noting that the new flying boat was not supposed to have anti-submarine capabilities (ZOP). The manufacturer, in order to shorten the time of analytical work and reduce costs, decided to significantly modernize the US-1A version. The modernization consisted primarily of replacing the engines with a completely new model, improving the aerodynamics of the aircraft and strengthening the fuselage - especially in its lower part. At present, the only user of machines of this type is the Japanese Self-Defense Forces, but India, Indonesia and Thailand are also considering their purchase.
