The JMSDF’s 81st Air Reconnaissance Squadron operates five OP-3Cs and four EP-3Cs from Iwakuni Air Base. Whereas the OP-3Cs are equipped with an electro-optical sensor and imaging radar, the EP-3s are designed to collect radio signals. The Japan Ministry of Defense issued a request for proposals for replacing both versions of the Orion in 2018. Japan plans to replace its entire fleet of P-3Cs with more than 80 of the four-engine P-1s.