World Navies

Aerospace, Defence & Security

Japan - Navy
Date Posted: 29-Mar-2017

Publication: Jane's World Navies

Contents
Summary | Executive summary | Key developments | Deployments, tasks, and operations | Role |
Deployment | Recent and current operations | Emergency response | Anti-piracy | Anti-terrorism |
China | North Korea | Iraq | Command and control | Organisation | Order of battle |
Naval aviation order of battle | Operational art and tactical doctrine | Bases | Naval Aviation Bases |
Personnel | Training | Military exercises | Multilateral exercises |
Core assets and procurement initiatives | Submarines | Souryu class | Submarine life extension |
Helicopter carriers | Hyuga class | Izumo class | Destroyers | Akizuki class | Atago class |
Aegis upgrades | Destroyer life extension | Variable depth sonar system and naval guns | 27DD |
Next-Generation Escort Ship | Amphibious warfare ships | Trimaran | Mine-warfare forces |
Enoshima class | Awaji class | Unmanned underwater vehicle | Auxiliaries | Munitions | Torpedo |
Harpoon Block II | SM-2 Block IIIB | Naval aviation | Maritime patrol/anti-submarine warfare |
Fixed-wing transport | Utility helicopters | Trainers | Unmanned aerial vehicles | Equipment in service |
Submarines | Surface fleet | Auxiliaries | Missiles | Unmanned underwater vehicles | Naval aviation |

Summary

Strength Regular : 45,400

Reserves : 1,100

Submarines 8 Souryu-class

11 Oyashio-class

Helicopter carriers 2 Hyuga-class

2 Izumo-class

Destroyers 4 Kongo-class

4 Akizuki-class

5 Takanami-class

8 Asagiri-class

2 Hatsuyuki-class

9 Murasame-class

2 Atago-class

2 Hatakaze-class
 1 Shirane-class

Frigates 6 Abukuma-class

Patrol ships 6 Hayabusa-class

Mine-warfare vessels 2 Uraga-class

3 Enoshima-class

1 Yaeyama-class

1 Awaji-class

3 Hirashima-class

4 Uwajima-class

12 Sugashima-class

Amphibious warfare ships 3 Osumi-class Landing platform - dock

1 Yura-class Landing craft - utility

2 Yusotei-class Landing craft - utility

2 YF 2150 Landing craft - mechanised

Executive summary
Japan has the world's seventh-largest exclusive economic zone (EEZ), and it also operates a large commercial
fishing fleet. As a maritime island nation, Japan is dependent on its sea lines of communication (SLOCs) for trade;
90% of its oil is shipped from the Middle East, while 60% of its food is imported by sea. Given these factors, the
Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) is the dominant branch of the Japan Self-Defense Force (JSDF). The
JMSDF is empowered with the country's most fundamental mission: to defend Japan from maritime invasion; and
secure the safety of maritime traffic around Japan.

This mandate is being tested by the growth of China's military confidence and adventurism in the East China Sea
as well as the South China Sea. Chinese naval activity was specifically identified as a concern in Japan's recent
defence white papers and has since been underlined by the tensions with various regional nations over the
contested Senkaku islands. This tension increased after, on two separate occasions in January 2013, Chinese
frigates reportedly directed fire-control radar onto a JMSDF SH-60K Seahawk helicopter and the destroyer JS
Yuudachi . Beijing denied the actions. The latest National Defense Program Guideline (NDPG), released on 17
December 2013, highlighted the increasing incidence of "grey zone" situations over issues such as territory,
sovereignty, and economic interests, which increase the chance of conflict.

In addition to Chinese actions, North Korea's nuclear weapon test on 12 February 2013 and its continued
development of ballistic missiles is also a primary concern for Japan.

The JMSDF is being strengthened to tackle threats and responsibilities with the acquisition of two extra Aegis-
equipped destroyers (to bring the total to eight), helicopter carriers, and additional diesel-electric submarines
(SSKs).

However, despite these new platforms, the JMSDF is concerned about its enhanced future role. Specifically, the
JMSDF is not being reinforced as new ships essentially replace losses due to normal attrition. Furthermore, the
JMSDF needs more auxiliary ships. A post-tsunami review, conducted in early 2012 by the Japanese Ministry of
Defence (MoD), highlighted capability gaps in sea transportation.
To address future growth, the NDPG released in late 2013 revealed that destroyer numbers will increase from 47
to 54, with the submarine fleet increasing from 16 to 22. The number of aircraft will remain constant at
approximately 170.

Japan is concerned about conventional threats from China and North Korea and retains strengths in anti-
submarine warfare (ASW); anti-air warfare (AAW); anti-surface warfare (ASuW); mine warfare; ballistic missile
defence (BMD); electronic warfare; surveillance; transport/escort; and search and rescue (SAR). The JMSDF also
possesses an aviation component that comprises fixed-wing aircraft and various rotorcraft.

However, Japan also faces asymmetric challenges such as piracy in the Gulf of Aden. This demanding new
security paradigm is forcing the JMSDF to adapt to new conditions. For example, Japan maintains an ongoing
deployment of vessels and maritime patrol aircraft (MPA) in the Horn of Africa. These missions are placing stress
on the JMSDF, although the government recognises such measures will commonly be encountered in the future.

The JMSDF is also increasing multinational co-operation efforts in addition to its traditional bilateral alliance with
the United States.

The NDPG released in December 2010 highlighted the need for seamless and swift responses in protecting
Japanese sea space and airspace against ballistic missiles, special forces/guerrilla attacks, and enemy invasion.
There is particular anxiety about the southwestern islands, which are regarded as vulnerable in light of growing
Chinese naval confidence. "First and foremost, we must put priority on strengthening our defence capability in the
south and the west, looking towards China," warned Jun Azumi, the then Japanese vice defence minister, during
an interview with the Wall Street Journal  in December 2010.

To achieve this goal, the MoD is promoting "jointness" within the three services of the JSDF as well as enhancing
operational capability in Japan's offshore islands. Indeed, the 2013 NDPG advocated the underlying concept of the
"Dynamic Joint Defence Force". Joint exercises will practise defending against foreseen threats, especially in the
outlying islands. New aircraft, submarines, and destroyers will contribute to greater surveillance and defensive
capabilities. Escort flotillas, the heart of the JMSDF's combat strength, are being reorganised to allow more rapid
deployments of task forces overseas.

Key developments
Japan's Ministry of Defense (MoD) filed a request on 31 August 2016 for a budget of JPY5.17 trillion (USD49.87
billion) for the fiscal year beginning in April 2017: a record figure and up 2.3% from the last defence budget,
according to documents posted on the ministry's website. Tensions between Japan and neighbouring China and
North Korea remain high, with the new budget request reflecting Tokyo's plans to develop and deploy new anti-
ship missile and air defence systems along with a new mobile amphibious infantry unit and a new generation of
advanced submarines.

The budget request calls for the acquisition of a Type 12 surface-to-surface anti-ship coastal defence system for
JPY8.1 billion as well as the development of both an improved and an air-launched version of the same system for
JPY11.6 billion. In addition, a total of JPY14.7 billion is being earmarked to acquire the Standard Missile (SM)-3
Block IIA (RIM-161D) interceptor, which is being jointly developed by Raytheon and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries,
and will be deployable on land and sea. A further JPY76 billion is being set aside for the development of a new
generation of domestically built submarines, reportedly with advanced underwater detection capabilities.
Moreover, the ministry has announced plans to create a 2,000-strong mobile amphibious unit - based on the
United States' Marine Corps - that will be headquartered in Nagasaki Prefecture, while additional units will be
stationed on the islands of Miyako and Amami Oshima.

Deployments, tasks, and operations

Role
The JMSDF is focusing on new threats by preparing to respond to five specific challenges:

a response to ballistic missile attacks;

a response to "attacks by guerrillas" or special operations units;
a response to an invasion of the Japanese islands;
warning and surveillance in maritime areas and airspace surrounding Japan, with a response to an airborne
invasion and/or armed special operations vessels; and
a response to large, extraordinary disasters.

The JMSDF has a key role in enhancing Japan's "patrolling and surveillance system to ensure the superior
collection of information". Efforts are being made to eliminate the defensive void in the southwestern islands via
redeployments and the fielding of new equipment. A key component of Japan's BMD programme is shipborne
Raytheon Standard Missile 3 (SM-3) interceptor missiles. Another area of emphasis relates to what is defined as
"proactive and action-oriented efforts to improve the international security environment". These include
participating in international "co-operative activities to maintain international peace".

The 2010 NDPG mentioned four principal competencies for the JMSDF. These capabilities are already strengths
of the service, and they will be enhanced or, at the very least, maintained. In relation to these four capabilities, the
JMSDF has been tasked with:

1. Maintaining destroyers and ship-based patrol helicopters to defend territorial waters, secure sea lanes, and
conduct international peace missions. This includes intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR),
ASW, and BMD missions.
2. Augmenting the submarine fleet to conduct broad-scale underwater ISR and patrol the seas around Japan.
3. Conducting wide area sea surface ISR using fixed-wing patrol aircraft in the waters surrounding Japan.
4. Maintaining minesweeper units to safeguard Japanese territory and vessels.

Deployment
The JMSDF comprises the Fleet Escort Force, Fleet Air Force, Fleet Submarine Force, and Mine Warfare Force in
terms of its combat units. Assets are distributed geographically so as to be able to protect all Japanese waters.

Force levels within the JMSDF will remain static for the foreseeable future, with the current level just under 45,500.
The JMSDF includes a force of 1,100 reserve personnel.

Recent and current operations

Emergency response
The JSDF led relief efforts in the aftermath of the 9.0-magnitude earthquake and tsunami that devastated the
country's northeast Pacific coast on 11 March 2011. At the peak of operations, some 36,000 JMSDF personnel
and more than 50 ships were deployed in the region, including the helicopter carrier JS Hyuga , the Osumi-class
landing platform dock JS Kunisaki , 13 destroyers, four frigates, and both services' Yura-class landing ship utility
vessels.

Japan also despatched more than 1,000 troops and three ships in the wake of Typhoon Haiyan hitting the
Philippines in November 2013.

Anti-piracy
Since July 2009 the JMSDF has been deployed to the Gulf of Aden in support of international anti-piracy
operations. A typical deployment lasts three months and involves two destroyers. Additionally, the JMSDF
maintains two Kawasaki (Lockheed) P-3C Orion MPAs in Djibouti. The total number of JMSDF personnel deployed
on counter-piracy tasks at any one time is approximately 550 personnel. On 19 June 2009 the Diet (Japanese
parliament) passed an anti-piracy bill that authorised the military to protect non-Japanese vessels. In 2010 Japan
signed an agreement to build a base near Ambouli International Airport in Djibouti that houses about 200
personnel and two Orions. Facilities include a barracks and a maintenance hangar for JMSDF naval aviation
personnel supporting the P-3C Orions in anti-piracy operations. In July 2015 two JMSDF Kawasaki P-1 MPAs
conducted operational trials in Djibouti for the first time.

By the end of June 2016, the naval task force had escorted 3,702 vessels and aircraft had conducted 1,588 flights.
The JMSDF's involvement in the region gained a higher profile in February 2012 when the navies of China, India,
and Japan jointly evolved a set of procedures for co-ordinating their counter-piracy escort activities. As part of this
tripartite collaboration, the navies signed a new data sharing agreement allowing them to operate their vessels
more effectively.

Anti-terrorism
Beginning December 2001, the JMSDF despatched ships to the Indian Ocean to supply fuel to naval vessels of
countries participating in global counter-terrorism (CT) operations.

In November 2007 Japan's naval refuelling mission in support of NATO's International Security Assistance Force
(ISAF) in Afghanistan was terminated by the government. The mission was cancelled after the government failed
to win the support of the Democratic Party of Japan (DPJ) to renew the deployment. The DPJ, at the time the
country's major opposition party, claimed it contravened Japan's pacifist constitution by allowing JMSDF units to
support offensive military action.

The government did pass the Replenishment Support Special Measures Law, which allowed the JMSDF to resume
the ISAF refuelling mission in February 2008 for one year, but this legislation quickly became the subject of major
political controversy in the Diet. The law was further amended in December 2008 to extend the mission until
January 2010. However, cancelling the renewed refuelling mission was one of the first defence policy decisions
made by the DPJ following its victory in the August 2009 general election.

China
Territorial disputes in East China Sea over the Senkaku/Diaoyu islands have led to heightened tensions between
the two countries since 2013. In June 2016 Japan's then defence minister Gen Nakatani expressed concern about
repeated entries of Chinese People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) ships into or near Japanese territorial waters.
According to the MoD at that time, an incident occurred on 16 June when a PLAN vessel - identified as a Type 815
Dongdiao-class intelligence ship - entered the Japanese contiguous zone at about 3.05 pm local time and left
about an hour later. The incident was the first involving an intelligence ship in a decade, with the PLAN vessel
allegedly tailing two Indian naval ships during the trilateral 'Malabar' naval exercise attended by the United States,
India, and Japan. Japan's foreign ministry lodged an expression of concern with the Chinese embassy in Tokyo
over the incident, but China defended the naval vessel's entry into Japanese waters, claiming the passage was in
line with the principle of freedom of navigation and international rules.

Illustrating the type of challenges that Japan faces, on 6 August 2016 seven China Coast Guard (CCG) vessels
accompanied some 230 Chinese fishing vessels into what Japan described as its contiguous waters around the
Senkaku/Diaouyu islands. Japan lodged a formal protest to Beijing over this escalatory move by China. By the
following day, there were 13 Chinese government vessels in the area, and 14 on 8 August 2016. These "swarm
tactics" were clearly designed to make a statement to Japan.

North Korea
As tensions mounted prior to North Korea's failed attempt to launch a newly developed satellite-bearing long-
range missile in April 2009, the JMSDF deployed JS Kongo  and JS Chokai  - the two Aegis-equipped BMD
destroyers fitted with SM-3 missiles - to the Sea of Japan. Additionally, the Japanese Aegis-equipped destroyer JS
Kirishima  was sent to the Pacific to detect and track the North Korean projectile's path and to collect data to
determine whether it was a satellite or missile, although JS Kirishima  had no ability to intercept it.

The administration of Kim Jong-un launched a North Korean "satellite" rocket on 13 April 2012. During the lead-up
to the deployment, the Japanese defence minister warned that he might order the military to destroy the rocket if it
passed through national airspace. Japan deployed Aegis destroyers, including JS Kirishima ; Patriot Advanced
Capability-3 (PAC-3) missiles; and associated units to its southwestern islands as a precaution. Another North
Korean "satellite" launch occurred on 12 December 2012, resulting in similar deployments by the JSDF. In the
wake of numerous missile launches by North Korea in February-March 2014, then Japanese defence minister
Itsunori Onodera issued orders to the JSDF to shoot down any North Korean missiles that threatened to fall within
Japanese territory.

Iraq
In mid-2006 the JSDF returned from Iraq, having completed humanitarian and reconstruction support activities,
with a contingent of 330 JMSDF personnel employed in-theatre. JMSDF platforms that were used to assist the
deployment included the landing platform dock JS Osumi , which transported vehicles and heavy equipment, and
the destroyer JS Murasame .

Command and control

Minister of Defence:  Tomomi Inada

Chief of Staff, Maritime Self-Defence Force:  Admiral Tomohisa Takei

The JSDF is overhauling its command-and-control (C2) functions to enable a more integrated and organised
response to "complex" contingencies as well as threats to offshore islands, airspace, and sea space. The structure
covers the three services to allow better joint operations. This restructuring encompasses top-to-bottom changes,
with the joint staff itself being reorganised. Unified C2 and information sharing capabilities incorporate assets
such as satellite communications and cyber defence.

Organisation
Order of battle
According to the fiscal year (FY) 2016 budget request, a new maritime operations centre building is being built at
the Fleet Headquarters (HQ) in the Funakoshi district of Yokosuka. The reason for the new centre was listed as "to
establish a posture for more effective and smooth response to various situations in close co-operation with the
Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (JGSDF), Japan Air Self-Defense Force (JASDF), US forces, and relevant
government offices". The JMSDF surface fleet, titled the Fleet Escort Force, is headquartered at Yokosuka and
comprises four escort flotillas:

the 1st, based in Yokosuka, with Escort Divisions 1 (Yokosuka) and 5 (Sasebo);
the 2nd, based at Sasebo, with Escort Divisions 2 (Sasebo) and 6 (Yokosuka);
the 3rd, based at Maizuru, with Escort Divisions 3 (Ominato) and 7 (Maizuru); and
the 4th, based at Kure, with Escort Divisions 4 (Kure) and 8 (Kure).

The 2010 NDPG had modified the structure slightly by reducing the number of escort flotillas from five to four. The
escort flotillas were reorganised into destroyer escort and guided missile destroyer groups to enable more flexible
and rapid overseas deployments for eventualities such as peacekeeping. Each flotilla typically comprises a
helicopter carrier, two guided missile destroyers, five ASW/general purpose destroyers, and/or frigate escorts. In
addition, each flotilla also has embarked helicopters. These are supported by an amphibious ship and a number of
mine-countermeasures (MCM) vessels and/or patrol craft.

In addition to these flotillas, there are additional divisions and squadrons in the Fleet Escort Force:

Escort Division 11 (Yokosuka);

Escort Division 12 (Kure);
 Escort Division 13 (Sasebo);
Escort Division 14 (Maizuru);
Escort Division 15 (Ominato);
Landing Ship Division 1 (Kure);
Replenishment-at-Sea Squadron 1 (Yokosuka); and
Drone Support Squadron 1 (Kure).

The JMSDF Fleet Submarine Force is organised as:

Submarine Flotilla 1 (Kure) with Submarine Divisions 1, 3, and 5 (all Kure);

Submarine Flotilla 2 (Yokosuka) with Submarine Divisions 2 and 4 (both Yokosuka);
Training Submarine Division 1 (Kure); and
Submarine Training Centre (Kure).

The 2nd Submarine Flotilla will receive one new division as the fleet expands.

The JMSDF also has a Mine Warfare Force, which is headquartered at Yokosuka. It is organised as:

Minesweeper Division 1 (Kure);

Minesweeper Division 2 (Sasebo);
Minesweeper Division 51 (Yokosuka);
Minesweeper Division 101 (Kure); and
Mine Warfare Support Centre (Yokosuka).

There are additional district commands:

Yokosuka district with Minesweeper Division 41 (Yokosuka);

Kure district with Sub Area Activity Hanshin containing Minesweeper Division 42 (Kobe);
Sasebo district with Sub Area Activity Shimonoseki containing Minesweeper Division 43, Sub Area Activity
Okinawa containing Minesweeper Division 46 and Coastal Defence Group Tsushima;
Maizuru district with Minesweeper Division 44; and
Ominato district with Sub Area Activity Hakodate containing Minesweeper Division 45, Coastal Defence
Group Yoichi containing Patrol Guided Missile Boat Division 1 and base facility Wakkanai.

Other units within the Self-Defense Fleet include the Fleet Intelligence Command (Yokosuka), Oceanographic
Command (Yokosuka), Fleet Research and Development Command (Yokosuka), Training Squadron (with Kure-
based Training Division 1), JMSDF Maritime Materiel Command (Jujo), Fleet Air Force, and Air Training Command.

In the future, the JMSDF plans to have a fleet of 54 destroyers (this figure includes helicopter carriers), 22
submarines, and approximately 170 aircraft/helicopters. Land-based air rescue facilities of the JMSDF and JASDF
will be consolidated within the latter service.

Modelled on the US Navy's (USN's) Sea, Air, Land Teams (SEALs), the JMSDF quietly launched a special guard unit
in March 2001, but has not divulged any operational or organisation details. The naval special forces units consist
of a Special Boarding Unit (Tokubetsu-keibi Tai) and a Maritime Interception Team (Goeikan-zuki Tachi'iri Kensa
Tai).

Naval aviation order of battle

The Fleet Air Force, with its HQ at Atsugi, comprises seven fleet air wings. They are stationed at Kanoya,
Hachinohe, Atsugi, Naha, Tateyama, Omura, and Iwakuni.

Air Command, HQ Atsugi

Unit Base Type Role

1st Fleet Air Wing       

1st Squadron Kanoya P-3C Maritime patrol

1st Air Group Kanoya n/a Support

2nd Fleet Air Wing       

2nd Squadron Hachinohe P-3C Maritime patrol

2nd Air Group Hachinohe n/a Support

4th Fleet Air Wing       

3rd Squadron Atsugi P-1 Maritime patrol

4th Air Group Atsugi n/a Support

73rd Squadron Detachment Iwo-to (Iwo Jima) UH-60J Search and rescue

5th Fleet Air Wing       

5th Squadron Naha P-3C Maritime patrol

5th Air Group Naha n/a Support

21st Fleet Air Wing       

21st Squadron Tateyama SH-60K Anti-submarine warfare

23rd Squadron Maizuru SH-60K Anti-submarine warfare

25th Squadron Ominato UH-60J Search and rescue

73rd Squadron Tateyama UH-60J Search and rescue

73rd Squadron Detachment Ominato SH-60J Anti-submarine warfare

21st Air Group Tateyama n/a Support

22nd Fleet Air Wing       

22nd Squadron Omura SH-60K Anti-submarine warfare

24th Squadron Komatsushima SH-60K Anti-submarine warfare

72nd Squadron Omura UH-60J Search and rescue

72nd Squadron Detachment Tokushima UH-60J Search and rescue

72nd Squadron Detachment Kanoya UH-60J Search and rescue

22nd Air Group Omura n/a Support

31st Fleet Air Wing       

71st Squadron Iwakuni US-1A Search and rescue

US-2

71st Squadron Detachment Atsugi US-1 Search and rescue

US-2

81st Squadron Iwakuni EP-3D Electronic/signals intelligence

OP-3C Maritime patrol

91st Squadron Iwakuni U-36A Target towing

UP-3D Combat support

31st Air Group Iwakuni n/a Support

51st Air Development Squadron  Atsugi P-3C Operational training

UP-3C

SH-60J

SH-60K

P-1

61st Air Transport Squadron  Atsugi C-130R Transport

LC-90 King Air Communications

111th Squadron  Iwakuni MCH101 Mine countermeasures

CH101 Utility

Air Training Command, HQ Shimofusa

Unit Base Type Role

Ozuki Training Fleet Air Wing       

201st Air Training Squadron Ozuki T-5 Training

201st Air Group Ozuki n/a Ground training

211th Air Training Squadron Kanoya SH-60J Anti-submarine warfare training

SH-60K Training

211th Air Training Squadron Kanoya OH-6DA Helicopter training

TH-135

Shimofusa Training Fleet Air Wing       

 203rd Air Training Squadron Shimofusa P-3C Operational training

203rd Air Group Shimofusa n/a Ground training

205th Air Training Squadron Shimofusa YS-11T-A Training

Tokushima Training Fleet Air Wing       

202nd Air Training Squadron Tokushima TC-90 King Air Multiengine training

UC-90 King Air

202nd Air Group Tokushima n/a Ground training

Operational art and tactical doctrine

Although the JMSDF owes much to the presence of the USN Seventh Fleet and the close co-operation between US
and Japanese warships, it has a distinct individuality born of the Imperial Japanese Navy.

There is now an increased emphasis on ASW and the protection of surface combat and merchant units from naval
mines. The JMSDF is also adapting quickly to a new, expanded role in sea-based BMD and in late December 2010,
the JMSDF and USN successfully deployed a fully certified sea-based theatre BMD capability.

Bases
Name Latitude Longitude Notes

Kure 34.238179 132.556671

Maizuru 35.47909 135.373459

Sasebo 33.158343 129.727168

Yokosuka 35.298185 139.638204

Hakodate 41.768293 140.713277

Yoichi 43.214691 140.777407

Hanshin 34.704523 135.28749

Shimonoseki 34.065828 130.892948

Okinawa 26.299436 127.918754

Niigata 37.942812 139.069928

Kisarazu 35.396533 139.910523

Naval Aviation Bases

Name Latitude Longitude Notes
 Atsugi 35.454413 139.449864

Hachinohe 40.551705 141.467169

Iwakuni 34.143343 132.235827

Iwo Jima 24.783333 141.316667

Kanoya 31.367943 130.838111

Komatsujima 34.005 134.628889

Naha 26.273531 127.757678

Maizuru 35.48951 135.376829

Ohmura 32.928265 129.934018

Ominato 41.234662 141.13406

Ozuki 34.046718 131.052132

Shimofusa 35.799629 140.01883

Tateyama 34.987212 139.834588

Tokushima 34.132645 134.606661

In July 2010 an agreement was signed allowing the JSDF to build a base near Ambouli International Airport in
Djibouti. The base costs USD40 million and it houses approximately 200 personnel plus two P-3C aircraft.
Facilities include a barracks and a maintenance hangar for the JMSDF naval aviation personnel supporting the P-
3C Orions in its anti-piracy operations.

This is Japan's first overseas base since the Second World War and it officially opened on 1 July 2011, at which
time the chief of staff of the JMSDF said, "It is not an outlying base where the JSDF would be permanently
stationed." Despite this, the tenure of JSDF personnel is expected to be prolonged owing to Japan's commitment
to safeguarding regional waters. Previously the JMSDF used part of a US military base.

Personnel
Japan as a whole is faced with a dramatically ageing population and declining birth rate. Additionally, greater
numbers of the population are receiving higher education. The new duties of the JSDF, including the diversification
of missions and sophistication of equipment, mean it must "strive to recruit, retain and develop high-quality human
resources".

The number of mandated personnel in the JMSDF will remain static at around 45,370 personnel. However,
according to the December 2010 Mid-Term Defense Program (MTDP) (FY 2011-15), some sectors, particularly in
the logistics field, will undergo "radical rationalising and streamlining". By introducing a new system for logistical
operations (for example, privatising some support functions), the MoD is trying to make more front-line staff
available without having to increase the force size.

The MoD has stated that it is making efforts to employ and promote more women across the JSDF. For the
JMSDF, restrictions on females serving on destroyers, minesweeping motherships, and patrol helicopters were
lifted in September 2008.

It has traditionally been difficult for the JSDF to recruit personnel, especially when the private sector can offer
better pay and a declining birth rate means there is an ever decreasing pool of available labour. However, an
austere economic environment makes the military and its associated job security more attractive.

Under the short-term service system, service is fixed for a period of two to three years. Over time, the proportion of
personnel enlisting for such fixed terms compared with those with an open-ended tenure has been growing,
although it is still less than half.

The JMSDF has less trouble than the JGSDF in attracting recruits. The JMSDF is actively involved in recruitment,
with regional bases conducting their own activities that contribute towards positive public relations and
recruitment. Methods include "enlistment experience programmes", the JMSDF band and open days for the public.

The December 2010 NDPG recommended reform of the JSDF personnel management system, due to the high
ratio of officers to enlisted personnel, the lack of promotion prospects, and a steadily ageing workforce. Under the
reforms, the number of authorised personnel at particular levels is to be regulated and managed, and younger
personnel are to be given precedence in front-line units. An early retirement scheme will be implemented too, with
retired personnel to be re-employed in the public sector.

Morale is considered good in the JMSDF. It figured prominently in relief efforts after the devastating earthquake
and tsunami in March 2011. Efforts have been made to improve working conditions and the MoD has enacted an
action plan to support a good work/family balance. Male personnel, for example, can take childcare leave.

The JMSDF maintains a justified degree of pride in its status as a capable and professional force. Personnel are
well-trained and the service benefits greatly from the close support and presence of the USN. While the service
has not had any combat experience since its conception, it is gaining broader experience through overseas
deployments and co-operation with other naval powers. It is also very experienced in patrolling and safeguarding
Japanese waters.

Training
JMSDF recruits normally receive three months of basic training followed by courses in patrol, gunnery,
minesweeping, convoy operations, and maritime transportation. Flight students, all upper secondary school
graduates, enter a two-year course. Officer candidate schools offer six-month courses to qualified enlisted
personnel and those who have completed flight school. Graduates of four-year universities, the four-year National
Defense Academy, and particularly outstanding enlisted personnel undergo a one-year officer course at the Officer
Candidate School at Etajima (site of the former Imperial Naval Academy), with special advanced courses for
officers also available in such fields as submarine duty and flight training.

The JMSDF operates its own staff college in Tokyo for senior officers. It also operates four primary service
training schools where skills taught include navigation; flight; weapons operations; naval diving; aircraft
maintenance; seamanship; and electronic systems. The large volume of coastal commercial fishing and maritime
traffic limits in-service sea training, especially in the relatively shallow waters required for minelaying,
minesweeping, and submarine rescue practice. Training days are scheduled around slack fishing seasons in
winter and summer, providing about 10 days during the year.

The JMSDF maintains two training ships and conducts annual long-distance on-the-job training for graduates of
the Officer Candidate School. "After assignment to a unit, members participate in systematic training in stages
throughout their full term of duty," according to the JMSDF.

Staff officers also participate in training courses offered in the United States and at the British Royal Navy Course
in Greenwich. The JMSDF maintains a Fleet Research and Development Command at Yokosuka to supplement the
Training Division based at Kure. The Fleet Air Force also has an Air Training Command at Shimofusa.
Japan uses a number of sea training areas to the west, south, and east of the home islands. Because of
limitations on domestic water and airspace, Japan also makes use of US training areas such as those in the
vicinity of Hawaii and Guam.

Military exercises
The JMSDF conducts training almost exclusively in Japan, and for a long period only held bilateral exercises with
the United States. However, there has been a marked increase in Japanese participation in multinational military
exercises over the past decade. The JMSDF conducts unilateral annual exercises every autumn with the
participation of almost every type of aircraft and ship.

As part of the concern about Japan's southwestern islands, the JMSDF participates in joint exercises that practise
the rapid deployment of assets such as anti-ship missiles and ground troops to counter threats. From 10 to 27
May 2014, the JSDF conducted amphibious landing drills in the East China Sea. Four naval vessels, 1,330
personnel, and aircraft from Japan's three services participated in the exercise. The drills "to defend and recapture
islands" focused on the uninhabited isle of Eniya off Amami Oshima, northwest of the Senkaku islands.

Multilateral exercises
Since 1980 the JMSDF has been participating in the multilateral 'Rim of the Pacific' ('RIMPAC') Exercise, although
it has only had an operational role since 2000 (previous efforts offered only bilateral naval support to the USN).
Since that time, the JMSDF has gradually increased its participation. This is the best opportunity for the JMSDF to
operate with a wide variety of nations, with China participating for the first time in 2014. Japan and the United
States also hold the biennial 'Keen Sword' Exercise that alternates with the 'Keen Edge' command post exercise.
The November 2012 iteration of 'Keen Sword', held amid heightened tensions with China, was the largest to date
and involved a total of 47,000 personnel from both countries. The 2014 edition involved some 41,000 troops from
both sides. JMSDF units regularly take part in annual command post exercises with the USN's Pacific Command.
Exercises 'Yama Sakura' and 'Keen Edge' consist of a naval, ground, and air unit combined simulation that runs
through a number of tests and drills in the bilateral C2 capability for the overall defence of Japanese territory.

Japan, India, and the United States also exercise together. The latest trilateral 'Malabar' manoeuvres, which have
previously triggered adverse Chinese reaction, took place in June 2016 with the harbour phase at Sasebo from 10
to 13 June and the sea phase in the Pacific Ocean from 14 to 17 June. Such exercises are important to Japan's
plans to strengthen regional alliances that might act as counterbalances to the growing naval might of China.
Thus, the bilateral 'Japan-India Maritime Exercises' ('JIMEX') have become a regular fixture between the Japanese
and Indian navies. The most recent 'JIMEX' was conducted in waters off the Indian coast in the Bay of Bengal 15-
19 October 2015. The JMSDF was represented by a single destroyer.

In 2010 the JMSDF participated in the US-led Exercise 'Pacific Partnership' for the first time when it deployed the
transport vessel JS Kunisaki . The main purpose of the exercise is to provide medical care and foster cultural
engagement. Participation in 2011 was scaled back due to the earthquake in Japan, but in 2012 the participation
increased again.

In July 2015 two JMSDF Kawasaki P-1 MPAs participated in the UK's Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT)
airshow. The P-1's first foray to RIAT may have been to explore the potential sale or joint development with the UK
industry of the P-1 for the Royal Navy's (RN) maritime patrol requirement, although the RN later selected the
Boeing P-8.

Core assets and procurement initiatives

The JMSDF appears to have increased funding overall, with observed additions in its surface fleet and
submarines. The combined destroyer and frigate fleet is set to move to 54 ships, with another two ships to be
added to its fleet of six Aegis-equipped BMD destroyers. Plans have also been made to purchase in bulk 20
Kawasaki P-1 MPAs and to induct a new type of patrol helicopter. Japan is also increasing its submarine fleet
from 16 to 22 boats through upgrades to older platforms.

Under the FY 2016 budget, the JMSDF's total allocation increased to JPY1.23 trillion (USD12.1 billion), from
JPY1.14 trillion (USD11.2 billion) in FY 2015.

In February 2017, international media carried reports of plans to accelerate warship construction for the JMSDF.
Japan plans to accelerate a warship construction programme to make two frigates a year to patrol the fringes of
the East China Sea, Reuters news agency quoted three people with knowledge of the plan as saying on 17
February 2017. Speaking on condition of anonymity, the sources said that while Japan was previously building one
5,000-tonne class destroyer a year, it will now construct two 3,000-tonne class ships a year, beginning with the
fiscal year starting in April 2018. The country aims to produce a fleet of eight of the new class of smaller, cheaper
vessels, which may also have mine-sweeping and anti-submarine capability, said the report

Submarines
Souryu class
Japan is continuing to expand its fleet of Souryu-class SSKs, which will support the government's plan to expand
the JMSDF's SSK fleet to 22 boats by the early 2020s. The JMSDF fleet will be expanded by building vessels at the
same rate and by delaying the retirement of older submarines. This reflects Japan's concern about the rapid
growth of China's submarine fleet.

The first Souryu-class vessel was commissioned in March 2009. Most recently, the seventh vessel, JS Jinryu  (SS
507), was commissioned on 7 March 2016. The eighth Souryu-class boat, JS Sekiryu  was delivered to the JMSDF
by Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) in MArch 2017. One other boat has been launched and a further three are
currently in build, with a total of 12 submarines authorised to date. In August 2014 the JMSDF requested JPY64.4
billion (USD635.1 million) to build the 11th 2,900-tonne Souryu-class SSK. What is significant is that this vessel,
and its successor, will employ lithium ion battery technology instead of air independent propulsion (AIP). GS
Yuasa, a Kyoto-based developer and manufacturer of battery systems, said in a 21 February 2017 press statement
that such batteries will be mounted on two Soryu-class boats currently in build for the JMSDF. Production of the
batteries for the two boats will begin in a special factory in Shiga Prefecture in March 2017, with deliveries
expected to begin in August 2018.

Displacing 4,100 tonnes submerged and fitted with the Swedish Stirling AIP system, the 84 m Souryu-class
vessels are an improved version of Japan's 11-strong fleet of the 3,500-tonne, 82 m Oyashio-class SSKs.
Construction alternates between KHI and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI).

Submarine life extension

China's increasing maritime activities in waters off Japan have prompted Tokyo to extend the life of existing
platforms. According to the NDPG released in December 2010, the JMSDF submarine fleet will increase to 22 by
extending the working life of existing submarines to enable them to serve alongside the navy's new Souryu-class
SSKs. The FY 2016 budget funded life-extension measures for four existing Oyashio-class submarines.

Helicopter carriers
Hyuga class
The JMSDF has in recent years commissioned two Hyuga-class through-deck helicopter carriers: the first, JS
Hyuga  (DDH 181), was commissioned in March 2009 and is homeported at Yokosuka Naval Base; and the second,
JS Ise , was commissioned in March 2011 and is homeported at Kure Naval Base. The vessels are primarily tasked
as ASW carriers. The ships can also be used as floating platforms for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief
(HADR) missions, with the ability to quickly deploy to disaster areas.

Described within the service as helicopter capable destroyers, the 18,290-tonne (full displacement) Hyuga-class
ships replaced the capability provided by the two 5,000-tonne Haruna-class destroyers - now decommissioned.
The 197 m JS Hyuga  and JS Ise  each have four spots on their flight decks for three Seahawks and an MCH-101
MCM helicopter. However, the ships are not fitted with a ski jump for vertical and short take-off and landing
(V/STOL) capability, meaning they cannot accommodate fixed-wing aircraft in their current configuration.

Izumo class
The Japanese MoD is building Izumo-class "aviation capable destroyers" - practically speaking, helicopter carriers
- that are the largest ships in the JMSDF. Approval for the class was granted in 2010 and in August 2013, the first
vessel was unveiled at the Japan Marine United shipyard in Isogo, Yokohama. The JMSDF confirmed in September
2014 that it had begun sea trials of its first helicopter carrier, JS Izumo  (DDH 183), and it was commissioned at
Yokohama on 25 March 2015. The second ship in the class, JS Kaga , was launched in August 2015 and was
commissioned in March 2017. JS Izumo  has already replaced JS Shirane  (DDH 143), while JS Kaga  will replace
JS Kurama  (DDH 144) in due course.

JS Kaga  is almost identical to JS Izumo . The only difference from specifications released for JS Izumo  is a
draught of 7.1 m rather than 7.3 m, and a complement of 520 rather than 470, according to details provided by
Japan Marine United.

Although described by Japan Marine United as an "evolution" of the two Hyuga-class helicopter carriers that
entered service in 2009 and 2011, the Izumo class will have a 248 m through-deck and will weigh in at 24,000
tonnes (full displacement). This is a significant increase on the 197 m long, 18,290-tonne Hyuga-class vessels.
The Izumo-class air wing will consist of seven SH-60K Seahawk ASW helicopters and two Leonardo/Kawasaki
MCH-101s. While the Izumo class is the largest military ship to enter Japanese service since the Second World
War, officials have repeatedly played up its "multimission capability", with a warfare role predicated on ASW and
C2, but a major peacetime responsibility in HADR.

Unlike the Hyuga-class carriers, the Izumo class is not fitted with torpedoes, although its defensive armament
includes two SeaRAM (Mk 15 Mod 31) short-range surface-to-air missile (SAM) launchers and two Phalanx Block
IA s close-in weapon systems (CIWS). JS Izumo  is equipped with a OQQ-22 bow-mounted sonar for submarine
prosecution.

Destroyers
Akizuki class
Construction of the first 5,000-tonne Akizuki-class (formerly referred to as 19DD) destroyer by MHI was approved
in the FY 2007 defence budget. JS Akizuki  entered service on 14 March 2012 with the second commissioned on 7
March 2013. Ships three and four were commissioned on 12 March and 13 March 2014 respectively, with MHI
building the former and Mitsui the latter.

Key improvements include enhanced command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance,
and reconnaissance (C4ISR), and AAW capabilities. The class is intended to provide a layer of defence around the
JMSDF's Hyuga- and Izumo-class helicopter carriers and Kongo-class destroyers, protecting the latter from
surface- and air-launched attacks and thereby freeing them to concentrate on their primary role of BMD. The
JMSDF is appreciably short of destroyers, especially with two vessels stationed in the Gulf of Aden and six already
earmarked for BMD tasks.

Atago class
The JMSDF's two Aegis-equipped Atago-class destroyers were delivered in 2007 and 2008 respectively. JS
Ashigara  measures 164.9 m in length, and its combined gas turbine and gas turbine (COGAG) engine gives it a
maximum speed of over 30 kt. It has a crew of about 300. The vessel is fitted with the upgraded Lockheed Martin
SPY-1D(V) air search radar, which is an improvement on the SPY-1D radar used by Japan's older Kongo-class
destroyers. The radar is fitted with the Aegis combat management system baseline 7.1J. JS Ashigara  is also
equipped with the Raytheon SQS-53C bow sonar system and a OQR-2 passive towed array sonar. Both Atago-class
destroyers will eventually be armed with the SM-3 Block IIA missile that is being jointly developed with the United
States.

Aegis upgrades
In June 2006 the United States approved a contract to upgrade the JMSDF's fleet of four Kongo-class Aegis-
equipped destroyers. The upgrade programme included Aegis Baseline 3.6.1 and SM-3 Block IA missiles. JS
Kongo  was completed in 2007 and a successful SM-3 test-firing was conducted in December 2007. JS Choukai 
completed the upgrade in 2008 and JS Myoukou  in 2009. In October 2010 JS Kirishima  performed a successful
test interception of a ballistic missile target 161 km (100 miles) above the Pacific Ocean and was certified,
completing the four-vessel programme. These Kongo-class ships and SM-2/SM-3 missiles have combined with
land-based PAC-3 missiles to form the initial BMD shield for mainland Japan.

The United States and Japan have successfully conducted a flight test resulting in the first intercept of a ballistic
missile target using a ship-launched Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) Block IIA (RIM-161D) off the west coast of Hawaii,
the US Missile Defense Agency (MDA) said in a 3 February 2017 press release. The flight test, designated SM-3
Block IIA Cooperative Development Project Flight Test, Standard Missile (SFTM)-01, was the third flight test of the
SM-3 Block IIA guided missile and the first intercept test. It also marked the first time that an SM-3 Block IIA was
launched from an Aegis ship and the first intercept engagement using the Aegis Baseline 9.C2 weapon system,
according to the MDA. The first successful intercept test involving the SM-3 Block IIA missile marks a significant
step in Japanese and US efforts to enhance its anti-ballistic missile capabilities. The test comes at a time when
Japan and South Korea, two key US allies in the Asia-Pacific region, feel threatened by North Korea's
advancements in ballistic missile technology.

All BMD destroyers will eventually be armed with SM-3 Block IIA missiles capable of intercepting any North Korean
missiles. In 2012 the two Atago-class destroyers began undergoing improvements to their BMD systems. Under a
USD92.6 million cost-plus modification to the September 2011 Aegis system support contract, Lockheed Martin
provided further engineering services to modernise the weapon and combat systems installed onboard the Aegis-
equipped fleet. Then, on 14 May 2014 the US Department of Defense (DoD) announced that Japan had awarded
contracts worth more than USD113 million under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme to Lockheed Martin
for the continued modernisation of key combat management systems on the two Atago- and four Kongo-class
vessels. According to the DoD, the Japanese government exercised additional options on two existing deals, made
in September 2011 and May 2013, for the modernisation of Aegis and AN/SQQ-89A(V)15 ASW combat systems
respectively.

Destroyer life extension

The JMSDF has progressively implemented life-extension measures for the Hatsuyuki-, Asagiri-, Abukuma-, Kongo-
, and Hatakaze-class destroyers. For example, in the latest round of funding, the FY 2016 budget funded life-
extension work for three Asagiri, one Hatakaze, and one Kongo destroyers. In addition, the short-range SAM
systems aboard Takanami-class destroyers will be enhanced. Command systems aboard Takanami- and Asagiri-
class destroyers will also be improved.

Variable depth sonar system and naval guns

Japan is developing a new variable depth sonar system that will be mounted on JMSDF destroyers. It will have an
active sonar function and a towed array sonar to "enable mutually co-ordinated searches among multiple
destroyers in order to enhance capabilities to detect and classify submarines under layer depth", according to the
MoD. The MoD is also conducting research into how to employ long-range naval gun ammunition so as to provide
precision fire support from outside an enemy threat zone. This involves rocket-assisted ammunition and trajectory
correction technology.

27DD
The FY 2015 budget request included JPY227.4 billion (USD2.2 billion) to build a new Atago-class Aegis destroyer
and to buy the Aegis system for a second new ship. By doing so, the MoD is increasing Japan's Aegis fleet to eight
ships. The destroyers, called the 27DD class, feature "a modified Atago-class hull" and propulsion system. A
graphic included in a request for proposal (RfP) released by the MoD to potential shipbuilders in July 2015 said the
new class will displace 8,200 tonnes (empty), compared with the Atago class' 7,700 tonnes.

An August 2015 notification by the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) of a possible USD1.5 billion
sale of two Aegis combat systems and other naval equipment to Japan provided new details on the two-ship class
of BMD destroyers that Tokyo is building.

The DSCA notification stated they will feature the Aegis MK 7, which includes the Lockheed Martin SPY-1D radar,
and supporting systems; AN/SQQ-89 (V) 15 Underwater Surveillance and Communication System; Multi-Function
Towed Array and associated OK-410(V)3/SQR handling equipment; MK 41 Vertical Launch System (VLS) and
associated systems to support the SM-3 missile; and a number of other systems already fitted to the Atago class.

New systems not featured on the Atago class to be provided by the United States include the Northrop Grumman
AN/SPQ-9B X-band (NATO I-band) pulse-Doppler, frequency-agile fire-control radar. According to the RfP released
in July 2015, the ships will feature new anti-ship missiles and they will be the first JMSDF ships to be powered by a
combined gas turbine-electric and gas turbine (COGLAG) configuration. The larger displacement of 8,200 tonnes
may reflect plans for advanced weapon systems to be retrofitted to the class at a later date. The two destroyers
are expected to enter service in 2020 and 2021 respectively.

In August 2016, Lockheed Martin announced that JMSDF will equip their new destroyers with the Aegis Baseline 9
naval combat system. The system, which has been described as the latest evolution in the Aegis series, will
feature integrated air- and missile-defence (IAMD) capabilities and the setup will include Lockheed Martin's SPY-1
multifunction radar system. Although Lockheed Martin did not disclose the class of ships that the Aegis Baseline
9 system will go onboard, stating only that these will be Japan's seventh and eighth Aegis-equipped ships, it is
likely these will be the 27DD - Improved Atago class

Next-Generation Escort Ship

Japan is proposing other new ship classes too. The Next-Generation Escort Ship (also known as the DDR
Destroyer Revolution) is in the 5,400-tonne class, with full-scale research and development (R&D) initiated in 2011.
Construction of the first DDR light escort destroyer could commence in 2021. Late in 2013, reports surfaced of a
high-speed small destroyer in the 3,000-tonne class. No details are available, but they are likely to be optimised for
ASuW and surveillance of the outer islands.

Amphibious warfare ships

In 2014 then Japanese defence minister Onodera expressed the intention of buying one amphibious assault ship
from the United States to provide better amphibious capabilities than the current Osumi-class landing ships. A
Wasp-class amphibious assault ship is the most likely candidate for acquisition.

As the JGSDF expands its amphibious capabilities with assets such as amphibious assault vehicles 7 (AAV7s),
the JMSDF will need to implement changes. For example, Osumi-class tank landing ships (LSTs) will be upgraded
to improve their transport capabilities. In early January 2014 the MoD confirmed it will perform a major refit on
three Osumi-class LSTs to improve their amphibious capabilities. The refit will focus on upgrades that will allow
them to embark AAV7s and Bell-Boeing MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft. The upgrades will be performed during
scheduled maintenance, with JS Shimokita 's scheduled for FY 2016-17, JS Kunisaki 's for FY 2017-18, and JS
Osumi 's for FY 2018-19. The upgrade also includes strengthening the stern gate though which AAVs will pass as
well as the LST's water discharge system.

Trimaran
The MoD announced on 4 March 2014 that it had signed a preliminary agreement on joint research into a high-
speed trimaran with the United States. Under the joint study, which is being conducted under the bilateral Mutual
Defense Assistance agreement, Japan and the United States will design and build multiple trimaran models and
exchange data such as hull strength and speed. An official at the MoD's Technical Research and Development
Institute (TRDI) told IHS Jane's  on 5 March 2014 that, while the advantages of helicopter capable high-speed
trimarans were understood, it was unclear when such a vessel would enter JMSDF service. The MoD allocated
JPY900 million (USD8.8 million) in its FY 2013-14 budget for a five-year study to build and test trimaran
prototypes. Speaking to IHS Jane's  in May 2015, Rear Admiral Gojiro Watanabe, director general of operations and
plans of Maritime Staff Office, stated that the vessel will be equipped with ASW, AAW, and also mine counter-
warfare systems. Although details of the equipment have not been decided, construction is expected to start in
2018.

Mine-warfare forces
Enoshima class
Additional Hirashima-class units had originally been expected, but they were not procured as production switched
to MCM vessels made with fibre-reinforced plastic (FRP) hulls. The focus on production of these FRP-hulled
vessels will continue to renew the MCM fleet. Such FRP-hulled ships will reportedly have a longer service life than
equivalent wooden vessels, thus resulting in lower lifecycle costs. A total of 8-10 vessels will be required to
replace the Hatsushima/Uwajima-class vessels and possibly also Niijima drone control ships and Yaeyama-class
ocean minesweepers over the next 10 years.

Financing for the first Enoshima-class vessel was approved in the FY 2008 budget and it was laid down in May
2009 by Universal Shipbuilding Corporation. The vessel was commissioned in March 2012. Delivery of the second
vessel occurred in 2013, while the third was commissioned on 19 March 2015. Five vessels are supposed to be
constructed under the MTDP FY 2011-15.

Awaji class
The first of three Awaji-class mine countermeasures vessels (MCMVs) entered service with the JMSDF in March
2017. JS Awaji  was built by the Tokyo-headquartered shipyard Japan Maritime United Corporation (JMUC) and
launched in October 2015. The ship is the first of the class ordered for the JMSDF. The second ship of the class,
Hirado , was launched in February 2017 and is expected to enter service in 2018. According to specifications
provided by JMUC, the MCMV has a standard displacement of 690 tonnes, a length of 67 m, a beam of 11 m, and
a draught of 5.2 m. The vessel is powered by two diesel engines of 2,200 hp each and has a top speed of 14 kt.
The platform's hull has been constructed from a composite fibre-reinforced plastic material to reduce the
magnetic signature of the platform for minesweeping operations.

The Awaji-class MCMVs are intended to replace the JMSDF's wooden-hulled Yaeyama-class minesweepers that
entered service in 1993.

Unmanned underwater vehicle

In April 2012 Japan purchased four REMUS 100 autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) from manufacturer
Hydroid, a wholly owned subsidiary of Kongsberg Maritime. It also ordered a REMUS 600 in June 2012. The
REMUS 600 can dive to depths of 600 m and is designed for operations requiring extended endurance, increased
payload capability, and greater operating depth, making it well-suited for the detection of underwater mines.

The AUVs were to be employed on MCM operations and assist with efforts to recover critical data lost during the
Tohoku earthquake in March 2011. According to Hydroid, the REMUS 100 AUVs will enable the MoD to
comprehensively scan and map areas of the seafloor affected by contaminants. The four AUVs will also assist
with MCM operations such as the detection and classification of sea mines, improvised explosive devices (IEDs),
and other live ordnance.

Auxiliaries
The service is appreciably short of auxiliary vessels such as oilers and replenishment ships to support long-term
blue-water deployments. A new planned auxiliary vessel appeared in the FY 2014 budget, a 5,600-tonne submarine
rescue ship to succeed the JS Chiyoda . As well as rescuing submarine crews, it will also be able to provide
medical support in the wake of natural disasters. It will operate a remotely operated vehicle and a deep
submergence rescue vehicle.

Munitions
Torpedo
Japan is developing a new indigenous heavyweight submarine-launched torpedo to replace the incumbent Type
89 torpedo, which now has difficulty in responding to advanced deception devices. It also has a declined sensor
detection range in shallow waters.

Harpoon Block II
On 13 May 2015 the DSCA announced that the US Department of State has approved the possible sale of UGM-
84L Harpoon Block II submarine-launched missiles to Japan. The approval covered the sale of missiles and
associated equipment, parts, training, and logistics support. The deal is estimated to be worth USD199 million.
Japan requested 48 UGM-84L Block II missiles to supplement its existing Harpoon missile capability, according to
the DSCA. The JMSDF currently deploys UGM-84C and RGM-84C Harpoon missiles across its submarine and
surface forces. Along with the increased range and obsolescence upgrades, the Block II brings a land attack
capability and, in particular, improved navigation/guidance.

SM-2 Block IIIB

In July 2016 the US Department of State approved the sale of SM-2 Block IIIB anti-air missiles to Japan. A
statement announcing the possible sale, which is estimated to be worth some USD821 million, was issued by the
DSCA on 19 July 2016. According to the agency, Japan has requested to buy up to 246 missiles, Mk 13 Mod 0
missile canisters, and associated technical and logistics support services. Japan's planned purchase is
understood to be to supplement its current inventory of SM-2 Block IIIB missiles. The JMSDF currently deploys
SM-2 Block IIIA/IIIB missiles across its Atago- and Kongo-class destroyers.

Naval aviation
Maritime patrol/anti-submarine warfare
Procurement of a replacement for the JASDF's Kawasaki C-1 transport and the JMSDF's P-3C Orion MPA was first
discussed more than a decade ago, with KHI being selected in 2001 as lead contractor. A contract valued at
USD589 million was awarded in March 2005 to cover manufacture of a prototype C-X and a P-X (to be named P-1
when in-service) for the JMSDF. There is an ultimate requirement for up to 50 of the type.

The MoD planned to deploy four P-1s at the JMSDF's Atsugi Air Base in 2011, but development was slow. The P-1
prototype made its maiden flight in September 2007, but it was hindered by structural and engine problems. At
least five aircraft had been handed over to the JMSDF for operational testing by late 2013, and seven were in-
service by 2016. The P-1s were grounded in May 2013 when one of them developed unstable combustion during
flight.

As part of the FY 2015 budget request, the JMSDF asked for JPY378.1 billion (USD3.7 billion) to buy 20 P-1 patrol
aircraft in a bulk order, rather than five a year over four years as in previous requests. According to the MoD, the
government was preparing legislation to lift a ban on long-term contracts for bulk procurement in an effort to cut
costs. A bulk purchase of 20 P-1s was expected to lead to savings worth JPY40.3 billion (USD397.4 million),
according to MoD estimates.

In order to maintain the number of P-3C aircraft, life-extension measures are being provided for the ageing fleet.
Funding to overhaul three Orions was provided for in the FY 2016 budget. The detection/discernment capability of
the fleet will also be improved with the addition of infrared detection systems and modifications to existing radars.

Fixed-wing transport
The JMSDF acquired six Lockheed Martin KC-130R aircraft, formerly in-service with the US Marine Corps (USMC)
for passenger and freight transport to replace its YS-11 transport aircraft. All of the KC-130R aircraft had their air-
to-air refuelling equipment removed and refurbished in the United States before delivery. The USN delivered the
first aircraft to Atsugi by 2014 and the sixth aircraft one year later.

Utility helicopters
MCH-101
The MCH-101 is a licence-built version of the Leonardo AW101 helicopter, built by KHI for the JMSDF. A total of 13
aircraft have been ordered, of which 10 had been delivered by late 2015. The final delivery is scheduled in 2017.
The CH-101s are used to support Japan's Antarctic research activities.

In February 2015 the JMSDF took delivery of the first MCH-101 helicopter airborne mine-countermeasures
(AMCM) variant. The aircraft was delivered to Iwakuni, where it performed evaluation trials with the 51st
Experimental Squadron before entering operational service with the JMSDF in 2016.

Special modifications include automated tail and rotor folding, plus an active anti-vibration system. Northrop
Grumman's AQS-24A minehunting systems were also selected for the MCH-101 fleet, and four AQS-24A systems
are to be installed. In addition, an airborne laser mine detection system (ALMDS) pod will be mounted externally
on the port side of MCH-101 helicopters. In February 2012 Northrop Grumman announced the sale of four of the
ALMDS. The JMSDF is the first armed service outside the United States to acquire the ALMDS, and Kawasaki and
Fujitsu are helping to integrate the system. The MCH-101 replaces the S-80M-1 (MH-53EJ) Sea Dragon for ASW
missions. Under an agreement between AgustaWestland and Marubeni, a spare parts depot was established in
Japan to support the fleet.
SH-60K
The JMSDF will receive 26 further SH-60K helicopters to help replace its older SH-60J craft from FY 2014-19.
Under a long-term contract, the JMSDF is buying a bulk order of 17 SH-60Ks with "improved capability to detect
submarines and increased attack capabilities to succeed the existing SH-60J", according to the FY 2016 budget
document.

SH-60J helicopter
A life-extension programme for the SH-60J will maintain required force levels of this craft. In the latest FY 2016
budget, funding was requested to upgrade two SH-60J helicopters.

Naval patrol helicopter (NPH)

Japan is also setting its sights on a future naval patrol helicopter (NPH) that will be domestically designed and
produced. Money was allocated in the FY 2015 and FY 2016 budget requests for their initial development, with
ASW as one of their primary missions. The ability to co-ordinate multiple helicopters in ASW is listed as a
significant criterion. Likely NPH bidders include Fuji, Kawasaki, and Mitsubishi. Entry into service for the NPH is
slated for 2022.
Ship-based multipurpose helicopter
As of 2015, this requirement for 80 helicopters was in the midst of a source selection, but the programme has
been delayed over a collusion investigation by the inspector general that commenced that December. The need for
this new platform was further delineated in the FY 2016 budget document. It is described as a "ship-based
multipurpose helicopter to engage in transportation, rescue, provision for relief to and evacuation of injured
personnel, etc., in order to support destroyer units to continuously perform operations". The two leading
contenders are an improved SH-60K and the MCH-101. Airbus Helicopters chose not to compete as it considered
requirements were biased towards the Sikorsky design.
Trainers
Eurocopter signed a contract with the MoD in January 2009 to deliver 13 EC 135T2i helicopters to the training
wing of the JMSDF. The first helicopter, known in Japanese service as the TH-135, was delivered in December
2009. In December 2014 the last of the 13 aircraft contracted was delivered to the JMSDF.

Unmanned aerial vehicles

In early January 2014, the JMSDF announced that it will research the deployment of fixed-wing unmanned aerial
vehicles (UAVs) from its surface combatants. Furthermore, the MoD has expressed interest in the Boeing Insitu
Integrator reconnaissance UAV - more commonly known by its USMC and USN designation as the RQ-21A
Blackjack. The JMSDF envisages using the system to conduct surveillance of increasing Chinese military activities
in the East China Sea. The MoD put aside JPY2 million (USD19,726) in its FY 2014 budget to "study and research
the compatibility of ship-based unmanned aircraft with JMSDF vessels ... including the technical trends, flight
performance of each type, operability, onboard equipment such as weapons and sensors, and compatibility with
JMSDF vessels with a view to their introduction".

The JMSDF's desire to procure RQ-21A UAVs - along with plans for four high-altitude long-endurance UAVs - is
very much a response to concerns over a lack of ISR assets for maritime domain awareness and disaster
response.

Equipment in service
Submarines
Class Manufacturer Role Original total In service Commissioned

Souryu Mitsubishi/Kawasaki Attack 7 81 2009

Oyashio Mitsubishi/Kawasaki Attack 11 112 1998

n/a Kawasaki Heavy Industries Submersible rescue 2 2 1999

1. Deliveries in progress.

2. One converted to a training submarine on 6 March 2015.

Surface fleet
Original In
Class Manufacturer Role total service Commissioned

Hyuga IHI Marine United Helicopter carrier 2 2 2009

Izumo IHI Marine United Helicopter carrier 2 2 2015

Kongo Mitsubishi/Ishikawajima Destroyer - guided 4 4 1993

Harima missile (Aegis)

Akizuki Mitsubishi Destroyer - guided 4 4 2012

missile

Takanami IHI Marine Destroyer - guided 5 5 2003

 United/Mitsubishi missile

Asagiri Various Destroyer - guided 8 81 1988

missile

Hatsuyuki Various Destroyer - guided 12 22 1982

missile

Murasame Various Destroyer - guided 9 9 1996

missile

Atago Mitsubishi Destroyer (Aegis) 2 2 2007

Hatakaze Mitsubishi Destroyer 2 2 1986

Shirane Ishikawajima Harima Destroyer 2 1 1980

Abukuma Various Frigate 6 6 1989

Hayabusa Mitsubishi Patrol craft - fast 6 6 2002

Osumi Mitsui/Universal Landing platform - dock 3 3 1998

n/a Ishihara Landing craft 7 7 1980

Yura Sasebo Heavy Industries Landing craft - utility 2 1 1981

Yusotei Sasebo Heavy Industries Landing craft - utility 2 2 1988

YF 2150 Universal Landing craft - 2 2 2003

mechanised

LCM Various Landing craft - 11 10 1992

mechanised

LCAC Textron Marine Landing craft air 6 6 1997

cushion

Uraga Hitachi/Mitsui Minesweeper - tender 2 2 1997

Enoshima Universal Minesweeper - ocean 3 3 2012

Yaeyama Hitachi Zosen/Nippon Minesweeper - ocean 3 1 1993

Koukan

Awaji Japan Maritime United Minesweeper - ocean 3 1 2017

Corporation

Hirashima Universal Minesweeper - coastal 3 3 2008

Uwajima Various Minesweeper - coastal 21 4 1983

Sugashima Various Minesweeper - coastal 12 12 1999

 Niijima Nippon Koukan/Hitachi Drone control ship 2 2 1986

Sam Karlskronavarvet Minesweeper - drone 6 6 1998

1. JS Yamagiri  was converted to a training ship in 2004, but reconverted to a destroyer role in March 2011.
The same happened with JS Asagiri , which became a training ship in 2005, but was reconverted into a
warship in March 2012.

2. Three have been converted into training ships.

Auxiliaries
Original In
Class Manufacturer Role total service Commissioned

Shimayuki (ex- Mitsubishi Training ship 3 3 1983

Hatsuyuki class)

Kashima Hitachi Training ship 1 1 1995

Tenryu Sumitomo Training support ship 1 1 2000

Kurobe Nippon Koukan Training support ship 1 1 1989

YTE 13 n/a Training tender 1 1 2002

YTE 12 n/a Training tender 1 1 1983

n/a Ishikawajima-Harima Firefighting tender 2 2 2001

Heavy Industries

Chiyoda Mitsui Submarine rescue ship 1 1 1985

Chihaya Mitsui Submarine rescue ship 1 1 2000

Asashio Mitsubishi/Kawasaki Submarine air 1 1 1997

(formerly independent propulsion
Harushio class) testbed

Various Various Harbour tanker 36 34 n/a

Mashuu Mitsui/Universal Fast combat support 2 2 2004

ship

Hiuchi NKK/Universal Multipurpose support 5 5 2002

ship

Towada Hitachi/Ishikawajima Fast combat support 3 3 1987

Harima ship

Muroto Mitsubishi Cable layer 1 1 20131

 300-ton Maehata Zousen Explosive ordnance 6 6 1988
disposal tender

Hibiki Mitsui Ocean surveillance ship 2 2 1991

Shonan Mitsui Survey ship 1 1 2010

Nichinan Mitsubishi Survey ship 1 1 1999

Suma Hitachi Survey ship 1 1 1982

Futami Mitsubishi/Hitachi Survey ship 1 1 1979

Asuka Sumitomo Survey ship 1 1 1995

Nunobiki Yokohama Firefighter 9 4 1974

Yacht/Sumidagawa

Takuyo Nippon Kokan Survey ship 1 1 1983

Shoyo Mitsui Survey ship 1 1 1998

Meiyo Kawasaki/Mitsubishi Survey ship 2 2 1990

Tenyo Sumitomo Survey ship 1 1 1986

Hamashio Yokohama Survey ship 7 7 1991

Yacht/Ishihara/Nissui
Marine

Shirase Universal Icebreaker 1 1 2009

YT Various Ocean tug 30 30 1978

Various Various Coastal and harbour tug 21 18 n/a

Hashidate Hitachi Ceremonial 1 1 1999

yacht/disaster relief

1. Previous JS Muroto  vessel replaced in 2013 by a new vessel of the same name.

Missiles
Type Manufacturer Role

UGM-84C Harpoon Boeing Anti-ship

RGM-84C Harpoon Boeing Anti-ship

UGM-84L Block II Harpoon Boeing Anti-ship

Type 90 (SSM-1B) Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Anti-ship

 AGM-114A Hellfire Lockheed Martin Anti-ship

Sea Sparrow RIM-7M ESSM Mitsubishi Electric Anti-aircraft

Sea Sparrow RIM-7 Mitsubishi Electric Anti-aircraft

SM-1MR Raytheon Anti-aircraft

SM-2 Block IIIA/B Raytheon Anti-ballistic missile

SM-3 Block IA Raytheon Anti-ballistic missile

Unmanned underwater vehicles

Class Manufacturer Role Original total In service Commissioned

Remus 100 Hydroid Autonomous underwater vehicle 4 4 2012

Remus 600 Hydroid Autonomous underwater vehicle 1 1 2012

Naval aviation
For additional inventory details, please click here

Fixed wing

First
Platform Platform Synonym/NATO Primary role Estimated in delivery
family variant designation (general) Primary role (specific) service date
C-130 C-130R - Logistics Transport 6 2014
Learjet Learjet U-36A Logistics Transport 4 n/a
36A
King Air King Air LC-90 Logistics Transport 5 n/a
90 90
King Air King Air TC-90 Trainer Advanced 26 n/a
90 90
P-1 P-1 - Maritime Patrol 11 n/a
US-1 US-1A - Maritime Patrol 2 1975
US-2 US-2 - Maritime Patrol 5 2007
P-3 Orion P-3C - Maritime Patrol 75 n/a
P-3 Orion EP-3C - C4ISR Electronic intelligence 4 n/a
P-3 Orion OP-3C - C4ISR Surveillance/reconnaissance 4 n/a
P-3 Orion UP-3C - C4ISR Intelligence, surveillance, 1 n/a
and reconnaissance
P-3 Orion UP-3D - C4ISR Electronic warfare trainer 3 n/a
T-5 T-5 - Trainer Basic 41 n/a
 Rotary wing

First
Platform Platform Synonym/NATO Primary role Primary role Estimated delivery
family variant designation (general) (specific) in service date

S-70A UH-60J S-70A-12 Logistics Search and 18 1991

Black rescue
Hawk

AW101 CH-101 - Logistics Utility 2 n/a

S-70B SH-60J - Maritime Anti-submarine 46 1991

Seahawk

S-70B SH-60K - Maritime Anti-submarine 49 2002

Seahawk

AW101 MCH-101 - Maritime Mine 8 2006

countermeasures

CH-53 Sea MH-53E S-80M-1 Maritime Patrol 6 1989

Stallion

EC 135 EC - Trainer Basic 13 2009

135T2i

MD 500 OH-6DA - Trainer Basic 7 n/a

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