The Kawakami Ki-22 Shirokaze is a tactical assault fighter designed to meet the needs of the Indonesian Air Force for long-range, high-speed air operations with superior maneuverability. Operated by 14th Squadron, it’s become a key asset in various missions.

Speed:
- It reaches up to Mach 2.5, making it one of the fastest jets in the Indonesian Air Force.

Weight:
- Net: 13,348 kg (without ammo and full fuel).
- Gross: 24,882 kg (full load of ammo and fuel).

Air-to-Air Weapons (AtA):
- 4 R-43M missiles: Built for long-range combat, these missiles can track and take out airborne targets from afar, ideal for precision strikes.
- 2 R-48F missiles: High-speed missiles with a greater destructive power, designed for long-range strategic target elimination.
- 4 Type-17JM missiles: These are mid-range missiles, giving flexibility for close-range combat and ensuring quick response in intense air battles.

Air-to-Surface Weapons (AtS):
- 4 R-34 missiles: These are designed to take out high-speed ground targets, like armored vehicles or military installations, with pinpoint accuracy on the battlefield.
- 2 MK-9 Boom bombs: With massive explosive power, these bombs are used to destroy strategic ground targets like bunkers, enemy HQs, and military bases.

The plane has high maneuverability, allowing pilots to make sharp turns even at high speeds. This gives it a significant edge in dogfights, whether for offense or dodging incoming enemy missiles.

Operational History and "Shirokaze" Nickname
The Kawakami Ki-22 Shirokaze was first introduced in 2026 as part of Indonesia's military modernization program. It was built with a focus on speed, long-range combat power, and air-to-ground attack capabilities. Squadron 14 of the Indonesian Air Force was the first to operate this jet, and since then, Shirokaze has become one of the most respected fighters in Southeast Asia.

The nickname "Shirokaze," which means "White Wind" in Japanese, was given because the jet strikes with incredible speed, like a gust of wind on the battlefield. The name also reflects the tactical philosophy behind the aircraft: fast, powerful strikes with maximum damage before the enemy can react.

Beyond its impressive capabilities, Shirokaze is known for its stability and range. It can carry out long-range operations without the need for refueling, making it an ideal choice for missions that require quick mobility and precision in a short amount of time.

The jet has proven itself in various international military exercises, including joint drills with major countries in the Asia-Pacific region. In every drill, the Kawakami Ki-22 Shirokaze demonstrated its ability to dominate the battlefield, both in air-to-air and air-to-ground combat.

As a tactical assault fighter, Shirokaze continues to strengthen Indonesia’s position in the region and plays a critical role in the country’s defense missions. Its versatility and striking power make it the go-to choice for any mission requiring speed, combat power, and high precision.