Japan’s Kawasaki EC-1: A Truly Unique Warplane

The Kawasaki EC‑1 is not your ordinary warplane. This one‑of‑a‑kind Japanese electronic warfare aircraft is a modified version of the Kawasaki C‑1 transport plane. Designed and built in the 1980s, it remains the sole EC‑1 in existence, used by the Japan Air Self‑Defense Force (JASDF) to jam radar and communications—truly a rare gem in military aviation.

Jun 19, 2025 - 18:59
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Japan’s Kawasaki EC-1: A Truly Unique Warplane
Japan’s Kawasaki EC-1: A Truly Unique Warplane

The Kawasaki EC‑1 is not your ordinary warplane. This one‑of‑a‑kind Japanese electronic warfare aircraft is a modified version of the Kawasaki C‑1 transport plane. Designed and built in the 1980s, it remains the sole EC‑1 in existence, used by the Japan Air Self‑Defense Force (JASDF) to jam radar and communications—truly a rare gem in military aviation.

  • Only one EC‑1 exists, uniquely converted from C‑1 transport #78‑1021. 

  • First flight in EC‑1 form: December 1984; entered service June 1986. 

  • Based at Iruma Air Base, north of Tokyo, part of the Electronic Warfare Support Unit.

  • Functions: Radar detection, signal jamming, electronic warfare training

  • Lone showpiece: Whereas similar air forces operate multiple EW aircraft, Japan operates a single EC‑1, giving it legendary status.

  • Nature of the beast: Born from a transport plane, its radical nose, tail, and sensor pods signal a serious electronic warfare role. 

  • Training tool and testbed: Critical for teaching aircrews and evaluating new J/ALQ‑5 ECM tech over decades.

  • 1966–1970: Kawasaki builds C‑1 to replace old U.S. transports. 

  • 1983: JDA contracts Kawasaki to modify C‑1 #78‑1021 into EC‑1.

  • Dec 1984: Maiden flight in new EW form. 

  • Jun 1986: Official entry into service, 402nd Squadron, Iruma AB.

  • 2002–2009: Upgrades on ECM gear; J/ALQ‑5 “Kai” version added sensors. 

  • 2025: C‑1 is retired—EC‑1 is the final C‑1 type still flying. 

  • 2024–2032: Japan plans to field four C‑2 SOJ variants to replace the EC‑1.

Platypus: Fans affectionately call EC‑1 this due to its long, bulbous nose and odd shape.

Painted in standard JASDF green-grey pattern, but sensor pods stand out

  • From Reddit’s r/WarplanePorn:

    “The Kawasaki EC‑1 is a secretive electronic warfare support aircraft… The mission is to jam radar sites and missile defenses… not much is known.”

  • Aviation analyst:

    “Japan’s EC‑1 is rare—not just in number but in long-term testing and training value—one plane teaching decades of EW tactics.”

  • Japan plans to build four stand-off jammer (SOJ) C‑2s by 2032.

  • These platforms will carry J/ALQ‑5 Kai systems and new antennas, expanding range and capability. 

  • Larger C‑2 base means more power, better range, and eventual retirement of EC‑1—a natural evolution.

The Kawasaki EC‑1 sets itself apart as a singular marvel in the sky—a one‑of‑a‑kind EW aircraft built on a reliable C‑1 transport frame. For nearly four decades, it taught pilots, tested new electronic warfare tech, and operated under the radar—literally. As Japan moves toward modern C‑2 SOJ platforms, the EC‑1 will remain an icon of innovation and stealth education.