Fujimi released a great 1/72 kit of the F-35B as it would appear based aboard two of the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force's Helicopter "Destroyers." I took this kit a step further and retro-painted and marked the Kokutai's (Air Group Commander's) F-35B embarked aboard JS Kaga, DDH-184, as an A6M2 of WWII lineage stationed aboard the IJN Carrier Kaga, during 1941-42. (The modern Kaga, DDH-184 is almost the same size in length, as aircraft carrier Kaga which served in WWII.)
Hope you enjoy this future fighter of the JMSDF! I used Eduards photo etch set for the cockpit, and Berna Decals for the hinamarus and tail code. The identification bands on the fuselage and tail were masked and painted.
UPDATE: Appears that the Japanese will buy 40 F-35Bs. Resurrecting the Kiddo Butai!
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/japan-preparing-to-put-us-designed-stealth-jets-on-an-aircraft-carrier/ar-BBQgvUc