Japan's MOD launches probe into sudden change of MSDF's next-generation helicopter choice

Japan's Defense Ministry has launched a probe into the sudden change in the Maritime Self-Defense Force's (MSDF) pick of its next-generation multipurpose helicopter, amid suspicions the selection process may have been corrupted, Defense Minister Gen Nakatani said Friday.

According to the defense ministry, the MSDF's first choice of helicopter was abruptly changed with senior officials at the Maritime Staff Office being implicated in the improper change, as the selection falls under the jurisdiction of a dedicated selection panel that purports to ensure fairness and compliance, and prevents partisan choices and bid-rigging scandals occurring.

But announcing the investigation Friday, Nakatani intimated that the equitableness of the process may have been corrupted stating: "To ensure fairness in the procedure, a defense inspection is under way," adding however that, "It is not because any irregularities or scandal have been confirmed."

Nakatani went on to say that the ministry is trying to ensure that tenders are invited in a "manner in which fairness can be demonstrated."

Initially the dedicated selection panel had suggested the ministry purchase a next-generation chopper made by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd., not dissimilar from the helicopters currently used by the MSDF for rescue missions, but capable of being carried by MSDF ships. But this selection was abruptly altered to a series of helicopter made by rival manufacturer Kawasaki Heavy Industries Ltd.

As such the selection process has been halted pending further investigation into the sudden change by the Inspector General's Office of Legal Compliance. Endit