The Japanese Ministry of Defence is displaying the Kawasaki C2 military transport aircraft at the show. The aircraft, which was declared operational in March, is being shown at an international event for the first time. Its presence underlines Japan's growing export ambitions for its military equipment, even though emphasis is primarily placed on the C2's potential peacetime roles.

The programme was launched in 2001 with Kawasaki as prime contractor after Japan had reached the conclusion that the C-17, A400M and C-130J did not meet its requirements. The aircraft offers greater capacity than the existing Kawasaki C1 which it is designed to replace. The first prototype made its maiden flight in January 2010, and the first production aircraft was delivered in June 2016.

The aircraft is presented as offering intermediate capacity between the C-130J and the C-17 and is close in size to the A400M. Unlike the A400M with its four turboprop engines, the C2 is powered by two CF-6-80C2K1F turbofans and offers a top speed of Mach 0,82.

It features an empty weight of 69t and a maximum takeoff weight of 141t. The cargo hold is 15.65m long and offers a maximum height of 4m. It can accommodate two trucks, a medium helicopter or 110 troops. Range is 4,500km with 36t cargo, or 5,300km with 32t. The aircraft can be refuelled in flight using a rigid boom system.

The C2 is designed to airdrop cargo from the rear door, as well as paratroopers from the two rear side doors or from the cargo ramp (freefall paratroopers). It can also perform tactical missions. The aircraft is equipped with a flight management system said to offer greater control at low altitudes,

The C2 features a self-protection system, and most of the fuel tanks have ballistic protection. No information is offered on the aircraft's performance on unprepared landing strips.