Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force Fleet Inventory 🇯🇵

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), commonly referred to as the Japanese Navy, is a crucial component of Japan's Self-Defense Forces. Established after World War II and operating under constitutional limitations that restrict the use of force, the JMSDF is nonetheless a technologically advanced and highly capable naval force. Its primary missions include defending Japanese territorial waters, securing sea lines of communication, and contributing to international peacekeeping efforts.

The JMSDF's fleet is modern and diverse, featuring a range of destroyers, submarines, patrol vessels, and support ships. Among its most potent surface combatants are the Atago-class and Kongo-class guided-missile destroyers, equipped with the Aegis combat system. These ships offer robust anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine capabilities. The Izumo-class "helicopter destroyers," which are essentially small aircraft carriers, reflect Japan's move towards more flexible power-projection capabilities, even though their primary role is anti-submarine warfare.

Submarines are an integral part of Japan's naval capabilities, offering a stealthy deterrent and reconnaissance platform. The Soryu-class submarines are among the most advanced diesel-electric submarines in the world, featuring air-independent propulsion (AIP) systems that allow extended underwater operations. These submarines are designed primarily for anti-ship and anti-submarine warfare.

Japan has also paid considerable attention to mine countermeasures, given the strategic importance of keeping its surrounding waters and critical shipping lanes open. The JMSDF operates specialized vessels for mine detection and clearance, underscoring the importance of this capability in its overall naval strategy.

One of the defining aspects of the JMSDF is its focus on indigenous technology. While Japan does import some foreign technology, the majority of its naval assets are domestically produced. Companies like Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Kawasaki Shipbuilding Corporation are key players in this sector, designing and building state-of-the-art naval vessels.

Key facts

Number of active ships by category