The Japanese Air Self-Defence Force (JASDF) has plans to accept bids from which it will choose about 40 stealth fighter jets this month, a Ministry of Defence spokeswoman has said.

The JASDF procurement plans form part of its strategy to enhance its air defence capabilities to counter military developments in China and North Korea.

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The new aircraft, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2016, will replace Boeing F-4 Phantom aircraft, according to Bloomberg.

The suppliers vying for the project, estimated to be worth more than $4bn include Lockheed Martin, Boeing and Eurofighter.

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