Hatakaze-class

The Hatakaze class is a third generation of guided-missile destroyers operated by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). Developed as the successor to the Tachikaze class, the vessels were constructed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries at the Nagasaki Shipyard between 1983 and 1988.

These vessels were the first JMSDF ships to utilize gas-turbine propulsion. While the core weapon suite is based on the preceding Tachikaze class, the Hatakaze design includes modifications to function as a group flagship. This configuration allows the vessels to serve as command ships in the event that larger units are unavailable. Tactical operations are managed via the OYQ-4-1 tactical control system. The armament includes Standard surface-to-air missiles, Harpoon anti-ship missiles, and anti-submarine rockets. The vessels are also equipped with Mark 42 guns, Close-In Weapon Systems (CIWS), and torpedoes in triple-tube mounts.

Two ships were completed in this class: Hatakaze and Shimakaze. Hatakaze entered service in 1986, followed by Shimakaze in 1988. Both vessels were eventually transitioned from destroyer duties to training roles. Hatakaze was reclassified as a training vessel in March 2020, and Shimakaze was reclassified in March 2021. Hatakaze was decommissioned on 17 March 2025, leaving Shimakaze as the only unit of the class in service, employed as a training ship at Sasebo. During their service, the ships have been home-ported at Yokosuka and Sasebo.