Reflections on Our Japan Trip
A personal note from Juriaan Kellermann, CEO of Fokker Next Gen
Toki Aviation Capital and Fokker Next Gen enjoy dinner after the signing of the MoU
After our trip to Singapore, we continued our journey to Japan. Looking back, I am filled with enthusiasm and a reinforced sense of purpose for the future of Fokker Next Gen (FNG). Japan's extensive history of technological innovation, coupled with its strong ambitions to advance hydrogen combustion-powered aircraft, has offered us deep insights and significant opportunities.
Japan's Cutting-Edge Innovation Landscape
Japan has long been a leader in technological advancements, and our meetings here clearly illustrated this. From our interactions with key institutions, investment firms, and companies, it's evident that Japan is heavily investing in emerging technologies and sustainable solutions. Their focus on accelerating the development of hydrogen combustion-powered aircraft aligns perfectly with FNG's vision.
Tasuku IDE, Senior Manager Aircraft and Engines Procurement, Naoki FUJIWARA, Senior Manager Aircraft and Engines Procurement, Juriaan Kellermann, CEO of Fokker Next Gen
Insightful Interactions and Potential Partnerships
The week was filled with an array of meetings with a diverse group of stakeholders, ranging from government officials to private investors. Each encounter provided us with invaluable feedback and opened potential avenues for collaboration.
Development Bank of Japan (DBJ) and Ministry of Economics, Trade and Industry (METI): Our discussions with DBJ and METI underscored Japan’s ambition to support the development of next-generation hydrogen aircraft, particularly when Japanese companies and heavy industries are involved. This aligns seamlessly with our strategy to involve partners in R&D and design from the early stages of the program. We firmly believe that innovation in aviation is a collaborative effort.
Toki Aviation Capital: Meeting the people at Toki Aviation Capital again was special. We signed an NDA and MoU and agreed on a press release. These interactions have significantly strengthened our relationship. Their deep connections within the Japanese aerospace industry and government provide a robust network for collaboration and financial involvement.
Dutch Embassy in Japan: Our meeting with the Dutch Embassy in Tokyo was highly supportive and encouraging. They asked insightful questions about our aircraft and its characteristics and offered their assistance in connecting us with key Japanese companies and government bodies. Their backing is a testament to the strong bilateral relations between the Netherlands and Japan, particularly in the field of sustainable aviation.
Other Key Meetings: We also had engaging discussions with several prominent investment firms and companies, which provided detailed feedback on our business model and the technological aspects of our aircraft. They have shown a keen interest in the potential of hydrogen-powered aircraft, indicating a promising avenue for partnerships and securing investment.
Interesting Discussions with Industry Leaders
A particularly engaging part of our trip was the discussion with industry leaders interested in becoming partners and risk-sharing system integrators. The heavy industries, as well as other aviation component manufacturers, have expressed a strong interest in co-developing key technologies with us. Their expertise in areas such as hydrogen fuel systems, composite tanks, and hydrogen pumps is critical to our progress.
Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI), for instance, showcased their comprehensive involvement in the hydrogen lifecycle, from production and transportation to storage and utilization. Their collaboration with Airbus on developing hydrogen infrastructure at airports in Japan aligns perfectly with our requirements for the availability of liquid hydrogen.
Ron van Baaren, CTO of Fokker Next Gen, enjoys the views over Tokyo
Personal Highlights and Cultural Experiences
While our primary focus was on business, we also had the chance to immerse ourselves in the culture and beauty of Tokyo. On our day off in Tokyo, we enjoyed breathtaking views from the Skytree tower, explored the serene Senso-ji temple, and indulged in some shopping for presents for our families.
We were also treated this week to some exquisite local cuisine, including an excellent Japanese dinner hosted by the CEO of Toki Air Capital, who selected a most delicious sake to accompany our meal. Traveling to Kawasaki Heavy Industries by the Shinkansen high-speed train was a particular highlight, offering us a glimpse of Mount Fuji along the way.
Spending time with my colleagues in such a vibrant environment was a refreshing change from our usual office or Teams meetings. It was a great opportunity to bond and experience Japan together, enhancing our teamwork.
Yoshikazu Awazu, Deputy GM Aerospace Dept Mitsui, Juriaan Kellermann, Masao Yamagami, former Chairman and CEO of Mitsubishi Aircraft Corporation America, Inc. and current advisor to Fokker Next Gen, Carst Lindeboom
Surprising and Productive Meetings
I had anticipated our meetings in Japan to be primarily introductory, given the cultural differences. However, many of our discussions were far more concrete, productive, and supportive than I could have imagined. This has set a solid foundation for our upcoming engagements at the Farnborough International Airshow from July 22-26, where we will meet with senior management from most of the organizations we connected with.
Building Momentum and Attracting More Partners
The enthusiasm and support we have received in Japan have been incredibly encouraging. The interest shown in our innovative approach confirms that we are on the right path. We look forward to bringing more partners on board who share our vision for a sustainable aviation future.
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on the flight back home, which took us from Japan to Greenland, Iceland, and over the UK back to Europe, I realized that we had effectively completed a trip around the world. This global journey seems almost symbolic for the worldwide interest and involvement in the FNG program.
Our trip to Japan has been immensely valuable, providing us with deep insights and solidifying potential partnerships. The support we have garnered here lays a robust foundation for our continued growth, especially in Asia. I believe we are establishing lasting relationships that will drive meaningful advancements in sustainable aviation.
As we prepare for our next steps, including the Farnborough International Airshow, I am confident that the connections we have made in Japan will significantly propel Fokker Next Gen forward.
Warm regards,
Juriaan Kellermann
CEO, Fokker Next Gen