Japan's new fighter

Early in spring this year the JASDF will start to look into the options for a new fighter as replacement for their 130 or so R/F-4E/J.

So, what are the options? And should one keep in mind that the F-15 won’t fly forever and seek a common type as F-4 and F-15 replacement? And what would be the mission for the new aircraft? Air defense or somewhat more multi-/swing-role?

Have my Q&D analysis:

# the F-22:
As is or as a F-22J. Very demanding (and costly), but manageable I think and a great option for the F-15 replacement also. Question is how far the U.S. is willing to go regarding the software and how much Japan could develop their own software later in the servicelife.
— I say this is No2 (or second best) on my list.

# the F-35:
As is or as a F-35J. Easier to do than the F-22. But performance-wise solala, at least not a fighter. But they could make a fighter from it. Offers the second best chance for the Japanese industry.
— No3 on my list.

# the Super Hornet:
As F/A-18FJ the fastest solution for a multirole aircraft. And Boeing would likely be willing to go far for license production. But would it be a real progress? And would it hold itself against hordes of Dragons? Hm.
— No4 on my list.

# the “Nipponfighter Heisei 12”:
A Japanized-Eurofighter. That would make EADS very proud! They would sure be willing to go very far regarding software and future development. But their industrial base would be 10000km away and would it be a real improvement? Depends on the mission I think, very much an interceptor, not so great for multi-/swing-role missions.
— No5 on my list.

# the “Ichijin”:
A Japanized-Rafale. Same problems as with the Eurofighter. More suited for the multirole mission.
— ex-eqo No5 with the Nipponfighter Heisei 12

# a Su-27 derivate:
Politically not possible. Sorry Vladimir!
— rated X

# another version of the F-2
I don’t know. That seems not to be such a great plane. A shisauku seizo more of value for the Japanese industry (esp development and programme management) than the military. Wouldn’t be a progress, would be the symbol of another defeat.
— No6 on my list.

# a compleatley new “IJFX”
I say it’s about time! When they wanted to do it with what is today the F-2, the U.S. said njet. This time it has to be and it has to be a F-15 replacement as well. Banzai!
— No1 on my list.

# no replacement at all:
Peace to the world! Why not? Or better: Wait what will become of the F-15 and go for a replacement for both. But don’t wait to long, the Dragon rattles its cage on the other side of the drink!
— not rated