Kawasaki kv 107-ii

The Kawasaki KV-107 is a license-built Japanese variant of the Boeing Vertol Model 107 (widely known as the CH-46 Sea Knight), and served as a cornerstone of Japan’s rotary-wing capabilities for several decades. Production began in 1962 at Kawasaki Heavy Industries’ Gifu Works under a licensing agreement with Boeing Vertol, with the first domestically manufactured aircraft flying in May of that year. Over a production span of nearly 30 years, approximately 160 units were built, with manufacturing concluding in 1990. In 1965, Kawasaki secured global marketing rights for the Model 107-II, enabling exports to international customers such as the Swedish Navy and the Saudi Arabian Ministry of Interior, where the type was employed in roles including anti-submarine warfare, transport, and firefighting.

Within Japan, the KV-107 saw extensive service across all three branches of the Japan Self-Defense Forces as well as in civilian operations. The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF) operated the KV-107-II-4 variant for troop transport and logistical support, while the Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF) used the KV-107-II-5 for long-range search and rescue missions. The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) deployed specialized variants such as the KV-107-II-3 for mine countermeasure operations. In addition to military use, the helicopter was operated by civil agencies including the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department and commercial organizations such as Columbia Helicopters. The KV-107 was progressively retired from Japanese service during the late 1980s and 1990s, with the final units in JGSDF service remaining operational until 2002.