Japanese Defense Minister Yasuo Ichikawa: "There are some people who worry about this purchase with North Korea in it's current situation. But the decision to choose the next generation fighter plane was always based our understanding that the nation's security strategy is of foremost importance." Experts say the move to pick a U.S. plane, made unofficially well before news of Kim's death, reflects Tokyo's desire to tighten U.S. ties amid China's rising military might, and other regional uncertainties. In particular, Yoshihiko Noda has shifted gears to a more traditional security stance, after he took office in September. The choice boosted local defence firms, like Mitsubishi Heavy and IHI, on their participation in F35 production. Defence analysts say South Korea may follow with its own order for 60 fighters. ( Arnold Gay/ Reuters)