What's new

Japan Defence Forum

Carrier George Washington Leaves Japan for the Last Time as Forward Deployed CVN
By: Sam LaGrone
May 19, 2015 7:12 AM


Aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN-73), departed Japan on Monday for its last Pacific patrol as the U.S. Navy’s forward deployed aircraft carrier.

The carrier will be replaced in Yokosuka, Japan by USS Ronald Reagan (CVN-76) — currently in in California — and part of Washington’s crew will swap over to the Reagan.

“On behalf of my crew, we are grateful for the friendships we have shared while forward-deployed in Yokosuka,” said Capt. Timothy Kuehhas, George Washington’s commanding officer in a Monday statement.
“USS George Washington will now begin a journey, which will end in Virginia, but some of the crew of USS George Washington will transfer to Ronald Reagan during our voyage.”

The move is part of a complex crew and carrier shuffle that will trade sailors between Washington, Reagan and USS Theodore Roosevelt (CVN-71) — informally called CVN-220 based on adding the totals of the three ships’ hull numbers.

Ultimately, Washington will head to Newport News, Va. for its multi-billion nuclear refueling and complex overhaul (RCOH).

Roosevelt — currently deployed to the Middle East — will take over Reagan’s berth in San Diego, Calif.

The Washington Carrier Strike Group (CSG) includes guided missile cruiser USS Antietam (CG-54) and the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers USS Fitzgerald (DDG 62) and USS Preble (DDG 88)

Carrier George Washington Leaves Japan for the Last Time as Forward Deployed CVN - USNI News
 
.
First Of 13 Japanese Tsunami-Damaged F-2B Fighter Jet Repaired
Source : Our Bureau ~ Dated : Wednesday, April 22, 2015

Japanese first of 13 F-2B fighter aircraft which suffered damage due to 2011 Tsunami completed repairs, IHS Janes reported Tuesday.

The Japanese Air Self Defense Force (JASDF) rolled out the overhauled F-2B fighter aircraft in a ceremony to mark to the completion of repairs by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) and Lockheed Martin held at MHI's Komaki South Plant.

The overhauled aircraft will be used for pilot training at Misawa Air Base, before being transferred to Matsushima Air Base, according to JASDF.

JASDF suffered serious damage to 18 of its 31 F-2B aircraft in the tsunami that inundated Matsushima Air Base on the northwest coast of Japan, about 300 km north of Tokyo. Work to fix 13 of these began in December 2013, with the remaining five deemed to be beyond economic repair, the website reported.

Once repairs are complete, the JASDF will have 28 twin-seat F-2B and 63 single-seat F-2A aircraft in its inventory.

The F-2, which is based on the Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcon, entered JASDF service in 2000. As well as the repairs being carried out on the tsunami-damaged aircraft, the fleet is being upgraded to improve its air-to-air and air-to-ground combat capabilities.

F-2.jpg


First Of 13 Japanese Tsunami-Damaged F-2B Fighter Jet Repaired


@Nihonjin1051 What are the "NEW" upgrades?
 
.
The JMSDF operates two classes of submarines:

1) Harushio -class submarines - 2 boats

2) Oyashio-class submarines - 11 boats

3) Sōryū-class submarines - 3 boats


******************************************************************************************************
Harushio -class submarines

The SS Harushio class is a 3rd generation submarine, and uses a tear drop type hull. It is technically derived from the previous Yushio class and there is no major advancement, but silent running quality is improved [with a decrease of self noise] and there are some improvements in underwater capability.

Because is is a slightly enlarged and revised edition of the Yushio type, the silhouette is similar, but there is a projection section of the countermeasure intelligence sonar where it differs in the appearance extending to the bow top that makes it is possible to distinguish them. The hull was extended about 1 meter in total length attendant upon inside of warship space enlargement in comparison with the Yushio type.

Many characteristics of the submarines of the Maritime Self Defense Force are not published, with secrecy concerning maximum depth. The Harushio class uses the NS110 high strength steel in portions of the pressure-resistant boat hull, and the operating depth is presumed to be 300 meters or more. Making use of NS90 steel and the NS110 steel, the safe operating depth for the pressure-resistant boat hull is said by some sources to be 500 meters.

The Harushio class, is equipped with the the ZQQ sonar and TASS for bow sonar. The torpedo system uses the domestic 89 type torpedoes to assure improving the torpedo attack power.

The budget for the Harushio class was estimated at 38,673,000,000 Yen, but construction expenses increased substantially, to 44,266,000,000 Yen ago. As for the breakdown, the hulls cost 26,558,000,000 Yen, the main electric motors 1,433,000,000 Yen, the main generators 1,792,000,000 Yen, and the main storage batteries reached 2,185,000,000 Yen. The remainder of the electronic equipment and the like probably is 10,000,000,000.

The last unit of this class, the Asashio, began a new practice of the Submarine Division which was executed in 1999. In March 2000 the Asashio was redesignated as a training submarine (the TSS 3601), and was modified for this role. Until recently, modifying an old-fashioned submarine into an auxiliary vessel was the norm for training submarine crew members. But because these older vessels had restricted periscope depth, range and the like, this became less useful for training. It was decided to use as a training ship a vessel which had the characteristics of newly-built ship, and which possessed the same search and attack equipment.

The National Defense Program Guidelines in and after JFY 2005 and Mid-Term Defense Program (JFY 2005-2009) were adopted by the Security Council and the Cabinet on 10 December 2004. The latest changes to MSDF organisation was elaborated in the December 2004 guiding documents, the National Defence Program Outline (NDPO) and the Mid-Term Defence Program (MDP). It called for maintaining the number of combat-coded submarines at 16. This would imply withdrawing two additional Harushio class submarines from service by 2010 that would otherwise remain in service through the 2015 timeframe. Possibly these boats would also be redesignated as training submarines.

Standard Displacement 2,450ton
2,500ton (SS589)
Boundary Dimension Length: 77m
Width: 10.0m
Depth: 10.5m
Draft: 7.7m
Boat Shape Complete double shell system (tear drop type)
Main Engine Kawasaki 12V25/25S Diesel x2,
Main motor x1;
1 shaft propulsion
Horsepower 7,200ps (submerged)
Maximum Speed 12kt (surfaced)
20kt (submerged)
Crew 75
Primary Armament HU-603 underwater torpedo tubes x6
(dual use with Harpoon USM),
Type 89 torpedo
Surface Radar ZPS-6
Sonar ZQQ-5B, TASS
ESM ZLR-7

******************************************************************************************************
Oyashio Class Submarines


Key Data
  • Crew 70
  • Standard Displacement 2,750t
  • Length 82m
  • Beam 8.9m
  • Depth 10.3m
  • Draft 7.4m
  • Surfaced Speed 12kt

Oyashio is an advanced diesel-electric patrol submarine class operated by the Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF).

Eleven submarines of this tupe were built by Kawasaki Shipbuilding Corporation and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries between 1994 and 2006. The Oyashio Class is preceded by the Harushio Class and succeeded by the Soryu Class.

Oyashio Class submarines can conduct both anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare missions. Oyashio is one of the quietest and largest submarine classes of the JMSDF.

The keel for lead submarine in the class, also known as Oyashio (SS 590), was laid down in January 1994. It was launched in October 1996 and commissioned in March 1998.

Other submarines in the class are: Michishio (SS 591), Uzushio (SS 592), Makishio (SS 593), Isoshio (SS 594), Narushio (SS 595), Kuroshio (SS 596), Takashio (SS 597), Yaeshio (SS 598), Setoshio (SS 599), and Mochishio (SS 600).
Mochishio was the final ship of the Oyashio Class to be built, and was commissioned into the JMSDF in March 2008.

Design and features
The Oyashio Class incorporates a leaf coil hull design in place of the tear drop hull form used in previous submarines of the JMSDF. The earlier bow mounted sensor arrangement was also changed and conformal sonar was fitted on the hull side to achieve improved detection capability.

"Oyashio Class submarines can conduct both anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare missions."
The Oyashio Class has higher displacement over the Harushio Class due to its large flank sonar arrays. Anechoic rubber tiles were installed on the high tensile steel hull to improve acoustic stealth efficiency, while cigar-shaped hull enhances underwater operations and propulsion performance.

The Oyashio Class also features an advanced combat intelligence processing system, and the placement of the torpedo tube was changed due to a new sensor arrangement.

Submarines of this class are operated by a smaller crew compared to similar types of submarine operated by other nations, due to their highly automated systems.

Oyashio Class submarines have an overall length of 82m, a beam of 8.9m, a depth of 10.3m, a draft of 7.4m and a standard displacement of 2,750t. The submarine can complement a crew of 70.

Weapon systems
The Oyashio Class is fitted with six HU-605 533mm torpedo tubes with 20 reloads for Type 89 torpedoes and UGM-84D Harpoon anti-ship missiles. Harpoon missiles can travel at a speed of 864km/h and have a range of over 124km.

Type 89 is a wire-guided torpedo operating in active and passive homing modes. It has a maximum speed of 130km/h. The torpedoees can carry a warhead of 267kg have a maximum range of 50km.

"The class is powered by a diesel-electric propulsion system."
Sensors and radars
The Oyashio Class features Japanese-designed radar and electronics, and are equipped with JRC ZPS six I-band search radar. The sonar suite consists of a Hughes/Oki ZQQ 5B/6 hull-mounted sonar, a towed array sonar and four flank arrays.

Propulsion
The class is powered by a diesel-electric propulsion system. The propulsion system integrates two Kawasaki 12V25S diesel engines, two Kawasaki alternators and two Toshiba main motors. The power plant provides a total power output of 7,700hp. The propulsion system provides a surfaced speed of 12kt and submerged speed of 20kt.


1-oyashio-class.jpg

Oyashio (SS 590) at Pearl Harbour

4-oyashio-class.jpg

The Oyashio Class submarine can launch UGM-84 Harpoon anti-ship missiles.

Oyashio Class Submarines - Naval Technology

JMSDF Oyashio class Submarine - SS-590 Oyashio


image013.jpg image015.jpg Soryu Oyashio and Harushio.gif
***************************************************************************************************************************


SS Soryu Class Submarines, Japan

Share on facebook Share on twitter Share on email Share on print More Sharing Services 67



hide.gif

Key Data

  • Type Diesel-electric submarine
  • Builders Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Kawasaki Shipbuilding Corporation
  • Operator Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force
  • Crew 65
  • Displacement 2,950t
  • Length 84m
  • Beam 9.1m

The Soryu Class diesel-electric submarines are being built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Kawasaki Shipbuilding Corporation for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). Soryu Class is an improved version of the Oyashio Class submarine.

The keel for the first submarine in the class, Soryu (SS-501), was laid down in March 2005. It was launched in December 2007 and commissioned in March 2009. Unryu (SS-502) was laid down in March 2006, launched in October 2008 and commissioned in March 2010.

Hakuryu was laid down in February 2007 and launched in October 2009 for commissioning in March 2011. The fourth and fifth submarines under construction are scheduled to be commissioned in 2012 and 2013 respectively.

The class is also referred to as the SS 2,900t and the 16SS project. Soryu and Unryu have been named after the World War II aircraft carriers. Soryu was one of the carriers that participated in the Pearl Harbour attack. Both submarines are home-ported at Kure and operated by Subron 5, S-flotilla-1 of the JMSDF.

"The Soryu Class carries a hydrodynamic design based on the Oyashio class submarine."
Soryu Class design and features
The Soryu Class carries a hydrodynamic design based on the Oyashio class submarine. It has a larger displacement than any other submarine class in JMSDF's service. The hull form is made of high tensile steel and is covered with anechoic coating to reduce the reflection of acoustic waves. Interiors of the submarine boast acoustic isolation of loud components. The submarine features computer-aided X control planes. The design incorporates highly automated systems.

The submarine is equipped with Stirling engines for increased propulsion performance and underwater endurance. The engine supports superior submerged operations. The high-performance sonar onboard improves surveillance capabilities. The submarine also features stealth capabilities and enhanced safety measures such as snorkel equipment.

The submarine has an overall length of 84m, beam of 9.1m and depth of 10.3m. The normal draft of the sub is 8.4m. It has a surfaced displacement of 2,950t and submerged displacement of 4,200t. The Soryu Class can complement a crew of 65 including nine officers and 56 enlisted members. The submarine can sail at a surfaced speed of 13kt and submerged speed of 20kt. It has a maximum range of 6,100nm at 6.5kt speed.

Weapon systems
The Soryu Class is fitted with six HU-606 533mm torpedo tubes for Type 89 torpedoes and UGM-84 Harpoon anti-ship missiles. The Harpoon has a range of over 124km and speed of 864km/h.

Type 89 is a wire-guided torpedo with active and passive homing modes. It has a maximum speed of 130km/h and can engage targets within the range of 50km. The torpedo can carry a warhead of 267kg.

Sensors / radars
The submarine is equipped with a ZPS-6F navigation or surface search radar. The sonar suite integrates four low frequency flank arrays, a bow-array and a towed array sonar.

Countermeasures
Soryu features ZLR-3-6 electronic support measures (ESM) systems. There are two 3in underwater countermeasure launcher tubes installed for launching acoustic device countermeasures (ADCs).

Propulsion
Soryu is powered by a diesel-electric propulsion system. Two Kawasaki 12V 25/25 SB-type diesel engines and four Kawasaki Kockums V4-275R Stirling engines provide a total power output of 2,900kW surfaced and 6,000kW submerged.

"Soryu features ZLR-3-6 electronic support measures systems."
Soryu is the first submarine of the JMSDF to be equipped with Stirling engines manufactured by Sweden-based Kockums.

Stirling is a silent and vibration-free external combustion engine. The Kockums Stirling air independent propulsion system onboard reduces the need for frequent battery charging surfaced and thus increases the submerged endurance of the submarine.

The electric propulsion motor drives a propeller through a single shaft. The submarine is also fitted with an X rudder to provide high manoeuvrability to the submarine when operating very close to the seabed. This X rudder configuration was initially developed by Kockums for the Swedish Gotland class. The propulsion system provides a maximum speed of 20kt.

SS Soryu Class Submarines - Naval Technology



image015.jpg


25_26510.jpg


goo.jpg
 
.
Soryu Class 16SS SSK Submarine -


The Soryu-class submarine is a class of diesel-electric submarine jointly developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Kawasaki Shipbuilding Corporation for the need of Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). Ten Soryu Class submarines are planned for the JMSDF. The class is an improved version of the Oyashio Class submarine. The class is also referred to as the SS 2,900t and the 16SS project.

Technical datasheet: Soryu Class 16SS SSK Submarine JMSDF
S.jpg


S1.JPG
S4.JPG


S7.JPG

s6.JPG


S8.JPG

S5.JPG


s3.JPG

Soryu Class submarine 16SS Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force JMSDF Diesel-electric AIP SSK Unryu Hakuryu Kenryu datasheet pictures photos video specifications
 
.
Japanese helicopter destroyer JS Izumo (DDH 183)

10644486_10152693053242124_6615706845394291147_o.jpg

11060171_10152693053272124_5150839574868299370_o.jpg

17284_1029004827126878_5163631550907054697_n.jpg

Yokosuka, Japan (Mar. 25, 2015) –

The recently commissioned Japanese helicopter destroyer JS Izumo (DDH 183) enters her homeport of Yokosuka for the first time.

Izumo is Japan’s largest self-defense ship and will serve in a wide range of roles including peace keeping operations, international disaster relief and aid missions.

(U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Richard L.J. Gourley/Released)

Key Data
  • Type Helicopter Carrier
  • Builder Japan Marine United Corporation
  • Operator Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF)
  • Displacement 19.500 t (this figure is incorrect IMO it is either 24,000t or 27,000t )
  • Length 248m
  • Beam 38m
  • Draught 7.5m
Izumo-class, the largest surface combatant in Japan, was put into service with the Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF) in March 2015. The Izumo Class destroyer ships replace the Hyuga-class destroyers, which were commissioned in March 2008.
The vessels can be used for multiple purposes, including anti-submarine warfare, command-and-control operations, humanitarian aid and disaster relief operations, as well as to protect Japanese territories in the East China Sea.

Japan Marine United Corporation, which was created by the integration of two companies, Universal Shipbuilding and IHI Marine United, custom-built the two Izumo-class ships at the Yokohama shipyard. The construction of Izumo-class destroyer was conceptualised by the Japanese Ministry of Defense (MOD) in November 2009. JMOD received a budget of 118.1 billion yen for the fiscal 2010 for the construction of a helicopter destroyer.

Construction of the first ship in the class, JS Izumo (DDH-183), began in 2011 at Yokohama shipyard. Its keel was laid down in January 2012 and the vessel was launched in August 2013. It was commissioned at Yokosuka port in Japan in March 2015. Investment on the vessel amounted to approximately ¥120bn ($1.01bn).

Keel for the second ship in the class was laid down in October 2013, and its launch will take place in August 2015. Commissioning will take place by March 2017.

Design features of Izumo-class destroyer

The Izumo-class destroyer has a length of 248m, beam of 38m, draught of 7.5m and depth of 33.5m. Its displacement is 19,500t when empty and 27,000t when fully loaded. It can complement 970 crew and troops, and as many as nine helicopters including seven anti-submarine warfare (ASW) helicopters and two search and rescue (SAR) helicopters.

The destroyer features a spacious flight deck that can accommodate five helicopters to take off and land simultaneously. It also includes roll-on and roll-off ramp, and interior space for up to 50 vehicles.

Sensors and processing systems fitted to the vessel include OYQ-12 combat direction system, FCS-3 fire control system, OPS-50 AESA radar, OPS-28 surface-search radar, and OQQ-23 bow sonar.

Weapon systems fitted on Izumo-class destroyer
"Construction of the first ship in the class, JS Izumo (DDH-183), began in 2011 at Yokohama shipyard."
The Izumo-class destroyer is fitted with two Phalanx close-in weapon system (CIWS) guns, and two SeaRAM CIWS launchers. It is also equipped with electronic warfare and decoy systems, including NOLQ-3D-1 EW suite, Mark 36 SRBOC, anti-torpedo mobile decoy (MOD), and floating acoustic jammer (FAJ).

Izumo-class destroyer propulsion and performance
The Izumo-class destroyers are propelled by four GE/IHI LM2500IEC gas turbine engines, which generate a power of 112,000hp (84,000kW). They can sail at a top speed of more than 30kn (56km/h).

Izumo-Class Helicopter Destroyer - Naval Technology

2l-image.jpg

15703988332_f7d1260a71_b.jpg

izumo-23.jpg

izumo-22.jpg


DDH-183, Izumo, starting Sea Trails, September 2014
 
Last edited:
.
Interesting Article:

After the Izumo, What's Next for Japan's Navy?
Japan has its largest post-war helicopter carrier — how will it use it?

By Robert Farley

With Izumo in hand, what’s next for the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force?

As several contributors have noted, JDS Izumo has entered service with the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force. Izumo is the largest carrier (or “helicopter-carrying destroyer”) constructed by Japan since World War II. The 27,000 ton, 31 knot flat-decked warship gives the JMSDF critical advantages in anti-submarine and amphibious capabilities, and immediately becomes one of the most effective units in the Asia-Pacific.

Izumo and her sister represent an evolutionary step beyond the Hyuga-class light carriers, which displace about 19,000 tons. With the experience gained from construction and operation of the Izumos, Japan could easily take the next step to an even larger flat-decked amphib, or potentially to a full fleet carrier.

However, the JMSDF faces two significant obstacles in pushing to the next step in carrier evolution.

First, the current geopolitical environment may not require the JMSDF to operate anything larger than Izumo and her sister. Japan does not, at the moment, require power-projection capabilities, and any demand for such capabilities is ably filled by the carriers of Japan’s primary ally, the United States. If the strategic environment changes in the future to a point where Japan requires either a) a strike capability, or b) active fleet air defense, then the JMSDF could consider building larger carriers. Equipping the Izumos with F-35B VSTOL Joint Strike Fighters could help bridge a short term gap in capability if Japan determines that it does require full carrier capability, although the limitations of both the Izumos and the F-35B make this option less preferable than dedicated fleet carriers. Izumo could also carry attack helicopters in her current configuration, which fits with recent global practice of using helicopters in a strike role.

The more difficult problem lies with the historical legacy of Japanese naval power. Naval aviation represented the “killer app,” enabling Japan’s conquest of East and Southeast Asia in the 1930s and 1940s. This legacy, poisonous in the region and in Japan, is why the JMSDF remains reluctant to call its aircraft carriers by their name, even as India and China flaunt their naval aviation progress. If Japan constructed a carrier with serious offensive capabilities (or even took fullest advantage of what the Izumos can offer), it would supply anti-Japanese activists in China, Korea, and elsewhere with fodder about Japanese aggression.

For now, the image of a reborn Kido Butai frightens many Japanese as much as it does Japan’s neighbors. But given that India, China, and possibly Russia appear committed to increasing the size and sophistication of their carrier fleets, in the future it may become easier for Japan to envision a force of fleet carriers. The JMSDF should have contingency plans on hand for both maximizing the potential of the Izumos as well as looking to the next generation of carriers.

After the Izumo, What’s Next for Japan’s Navy? | The Diplomat
 
. .
Status of (JASDF) Scrambles in FY2014
activities_05.jpg

In total, the ASDF scrambled 943 times in FY2014, which marked a major increase of 133 times compared to the previous year. It is the 2nd largest number since the ASDF started taking anti-intrusion measures in 1958.
The breakdown by countries and regions was 50% against Russian aircraft, 49% against Chinese aircraft, and 1% against other aircraft, although countries and region also includes supposition.

Characteristics of Responses in FY2014
The ASDF scrambled against Russian aircraft 473 times in FY2014, an increase of 114 times compared to the previous year. In FY2014, 36 cases of scrambles, including 5 during the fourth quarter, were made public as remarkable cases.

The ASDF scrambled against Chinese aircraft 464 times in FY2014, an increase of 49 times compared to the previous year. In FY2014, 15 cases of scrambles, including 2 during the fourth quarter, were made public as remarkable cases.

There was no case of airspace violation that should be made public.

Scrambles against Russian intelligence gathering aircraft and Chinese fighter aircraft were outstanding in frequency compared to other types of aircraft of each country, although this includes estimation.

The period of this data is from April 1st, 2014, to March 31st, 2015.
No.64 Japan Defense Focus | ACTIVITIES
 
. .
S Korea, Japan defence chiefs to hold 1st meet in 4 years
AFP
Thursday, May 21, 2015

n-nakatani-a-20141225.jpg

Gen Nakatani


20150521_Reuters_HanMinKoo.jpg

South Korean Defence Minister Han Min-Koo

SEOUL - The South Korean and Japanese defence ministers will hold talks for the first time in four years next week to discuss pressing regional issues including North Korea, Seoul said Thursday.

The talks between Han Min-Koo and his Japanese counterpart Gen Nakatani will take place on the sidelines of the May 29-31 Asia Security Summit in Singapore, the South Korean defence ministry said.

With relations between Seoul and Tokyo stuck in a long, bitter impasse over territorial issues and historical disputes, bilateral defence talks at the ministerial level have not been held since January 2011.

The agenda for the meeting includes the impact of a new set of US-Japan defence guidelines, which South Korea has voiced discomfort over, a Seoul defence ministry official said on condition of anonymity.

"Regional provocations and threats such as North Korea's recent submarine-launched ballistic missile (SLBM) test will also be discussed," he said.

The new defence guidelines - announced during Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's visit to Washington - allow Japan to shoot down missiles heading toward the US and come to the aid of third countries under attack.

South Korea is concerned about Japan exercising the doctrine of "collective self-defence" around the Korean peninsula without its consent.

But the two neighbours share common concerns about growing threats from nuclear-armed North Korea.

"Security co-operation between Japan and South Korea is necessary considering the threat from North Korea," Nakatani told reporters in Tokyo on Thursday.

The North claimed on May 8 that a new SLBM had been successfully tested under the personal supervision of leader Kim Jong-Un. Launching missiles from submarines would allow the North to deploy weapons far beyond the Korean peninsula, but many experts believe it is still years away from developing a working SLBM capability.

Pyongyang already has mid-range missiles capable of reaching Japan, and frequent missile tests off its east coast are unnerving for Tokyo.

S Korea, Japan defence chiefs to hold 1st meet in 4 years, AsiaOne Asia News
 
.
The JMSDF operates two classes of submarines:

1) Harushio -class submarines - 2 boats

2) Oyashio-class submarines - 11 boats

3) Sōryū-class submarines - 3 boats


******************************************************************************************************
Harushio -class submarines

The SS Harushio class is a 3rd generation submarine, and uses a tear drop type hull. It is technically derived from the previous Yushio class and there is no major advancement, but silent running quality is improved [with a decrease of self noise] and there are some improvements in underwater capability.

Because is is a slightly enlarged and revised edition of the Yushio type, the silhouette is similar, but there is a projection section of the countermeasure intelligence sonar where it differs in the appearance extending to the bow top that makes it is possible to distinguish them. The hull was extended about 1 meter in total length attendant upon inside of warship space enlargement in comparison with the Yushio type.

Many characteristics of the submarines of the Maritime Self Defense Force are not published, with secrecy concerning maximum depth. The Harushio class uses the NS110 high strength steel in portions of the pressure-resistant boat hull, and the operating depth is presumed to be 300 meters or more. Making use of NS90 steel and the NS110 steel, the safe operating depth for the pressure-resistant boat hull is said by some sources to be 500 meters.

The Harushio class, is equipped with the the ZQQ sonar and TASS for bow sonar. The torpedo system uses the domestic 89 type torpedoes to assure improving the torpedo attack power.

The budget for the Harushio class was estimated at 38,673,000,000 Yen, but construction expenses increased substantially, to 44,266,000,000 Yen ago. As for the breakdown, the hulls cost 26,558,000,000 Yen, the main electric motors 1,433,000,000 Yen, the main generators 1,792,000,000 Yen, and the main storage batteries reached 2,185,000,000 Yen. The remainder of the electronic equipment and the like probably is 10,000,000,000.

The last unit of this class, the Asashio, began a new practice of the Submarine Division which was executed in 1999. In March 2000 the Asashio was redesignated as a training submarine (the TSS 3601), and was modified for this role. Until recently, modifying an old-fashioned submarine into an auxiliary vessel was the norm for training submarine crew members. But because these older vessels had restricted periscope depth, range and the like, this became less useful for training. It was decided to use as a training ship a vessel which had the characteristics of newly-built ship, and which possessed the same search and attack equipment.

The National Defense Program Guidelines in and after JFY 2005 and Mid-Term Defense Program (JFY 2005-2009) were adopted by the Security Council and the Cabinet on 10 December 2004. The latest changes to MSDF organisation was elaborated in the December 2004 guiding documents, the National Defence Program Outline (NDPO) and the Mid-Term Defence Program (MDP). It called for maintaining the number of combat-coded submarines at 16. This would imply withdrawing two additional Harushio class submarines from service by 2010 that would otherwise remain in service through the 2015 timeframe. Possibly these boats would also be redesignated as training submarines.

Standard Displacement 2,450ton
2,500ton (SS589)
Boundary Dimension Length: 77m
Width: 10.0m
Depth: 10.5m
Draft: 7.7m
Boat Shape Complete double shell system (tear drop type)
Main Engine Kawasaki 12V25/25S Diesel x2,
Main motor x1;
1 shaft propulsion
Horsepower 7,200ps (submerged)
Maximum Speed 12kt (surfaced)
20kt (submerged)
Crew 75
Primary Armament HU-603 underwater torpedo tubes x6
(dual use with Harpoon USM),
Type 89 torpedo
Surface Radar ZPS-6
Sonar ZQQ-5B, TASS
ESM ZLR-7

******************************************************************************************************
Oyashio Class Submarines


Key Data




    • Crew 70
    • Standard Displacement 2,750t
    • Length 82m
    • Beam 8.9m
    • Depth 10.3m
    • Draft 7.4m
    • Surfaced Speed 12kt
Oyashio is an advanced diesel-electric patrol submarine class operated by the Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF).

Eleven submarines of this tupe were built by Kawasaki Shipbuilding Corporation and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries between 1994 and 2006. The Oyashio Class is preceded by the Harushio Class and succeeded by the Soryu Class.

Oyashio Class submarines can conduct both anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare missions. Oyashio is one of the quietest and largest submarine classes of the JMSDF.

The keel for lead submarine in the class, also known as Oyashio (SS 590), was laid down in January 1994. It was launched in October 1996 and commissioned in March 1998.

Other submarines in the class are: Michishio (SS 591), Uzushio (SS 592), Makishio (SS 593), Isoshio (SS 594), Narushio (SS 595), Kuroshio (SS 596), Takashio (SS 597), Yaeshio (SS 598), Setoshio (SS 599), and Mochishio (SS 600).
Mochishio was the final ship of the Oyashio Class to be built, and was commissioned into the JMSDF in March 2008.

Design and features

The Oyashio Class incorporates a leaf coil hull design in place of the tear drop hull form used in previous submarines of the JMSDF. The earlier bow mounted sensor arrangement was also changed and conformal sonar was fitted on the hull side to achieve improved detection capability.

"Oyashio Class submarines can conduct both anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare missions."
The Oyashio Class has higher displacement over the Harushio Class due to its large flank sonar arrays. Anechoic rubber tiles were installed on the high tensile steel hull to improve acoustic stealth efficiency, while cigar-shaped hull enhances underwater operations and propulsion performance.

The Oyashio Class also features an advanced combat intelligence processing system, and the placement of the torpedo tube was changed due to a new sensor arrangement.

Submarines of this class are operated by a smaller crew compared to similar types of submarine operated by other nations, due to their highly automated systems.

Oyashio Class submarines have an overall length of 82m, a beam of 8.9m, a depth of 10.3m, a draft of 7.4m and a standard displacement of 2,750t. The submarine can complement a crew of 70.

Weapon systems

The Oyashio Class is fitted with six HU-605 533mm torpedo tubes with 20 reloads for Type 89 torpedoes and UGM-84D Harpoon anti-ship missiles. Harpoon missiles can travel at a speed of 864km/h and have a range of over 124km.

Type 89 is a wire-guided torpedo operating in active and passive homing modes. It has a maximum speed of 130km/h. The torpedoees can carry a warhead of 267kg have a maximum range of 50km.

"The class is powered by a diesel-electric propulsion system."
Sensors and radars

The Oyashio Class features Japanese-designed radar and electronics, and are equipped with JRC ZPS six I-band search radar. The sonar suite consists of a Hughes/Oki ZQQ 5B/6 hull-mounted sonar, a towed array sonar and four flank arrays.

Propulsion

The class is powered by a diesel-electric propulsion system. The propulsion system integrates two Kawasaki 12V25S diesel engines, two Kawasaki alternators and two Toshiba main motors. The power plant provides a total power output of 7,700hp. The propulsion system provides a surfaced speed of 12kt and submerged speed of 20kt.

View attachment 223139
Oyashio (SS 590) at Pearl Harbour

View attachment 223140
The Oyashio Class submarine can launch UGM-84 Harpoon anti-ship missiles.

Oyashio Class Submarines - Naval Technology

JMSDF Oyashio class Submarine - SS-590 Oyashio


View attachment 223141 View attachment 223142 View attachment 223143
***************************************************************************************************************************


SS Soryu Class Submarines, Japan

Share on facebook Share on twitter Share on email Share on print More Sharing Services 67



hide.gif

Key Data



    • Type Diesel-electric submarine
    • Builders Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Kawasaki Shipbuilding Corporation
    • Operator Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force
    • Crew 65
    • Displacement 2,950t
    • Length 84m
    • Beam 9.1m
The Soryu Class diesel-electric submarines are being built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and Kawasaki Shipbuilding Corporation for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). Soryu Class is an improved version of the Oyashio Class submarine.

The keel for the first submarine in the class, Soryu (SS-501), was laid down in March 2005. It was launched in December 2007 and commissioned in March 2009. Unryu (SS-502) was laid down in March 2006, launched in October 2008 and commissioned in March 2010.

Hakuryu was laid down in February 2007 and launched in October 2009 for commissioning in March 2011. The fourth and fifth submarines under construction are scheduled to be commissioned in 2012 and 2013 respectively.

The class is also referred to as the SS 2,900t and the 16SS project. Soryu and Unryu have been named after the World War II aircraft carriers. Soryu was one of the carriers that participated in the Pearl Harbour attack. Both submarines are home-ported at Kure and operated by Subron 5, S-flotilla-1 of the JMSDF.

"The Soryu Class carries a hydrodynamic design based on the Oyashio class submarine."
Soryu Class design and features

The Soryu Class carries a hydrodynamic design based on the Oyashio class submarine. It has a larger displacement than any other submarine class in JMSDF's service. The hull form is made of high tensile steel and is covered with anechoic coating to reduce the reflection of acoustic waves. Interiors of the submarine boast acoustic isolation of loud components. The submarine features computer-aided X control planes. The design incorporates highly automated systems.

The submarine is equipped with Stirling engines for increased propulsion performance and underwater endurance. The engine supports superior submerged operations. The high-performance sonar onboard improves surveillance capabilities. The submarine also features stealth capabilities and enhanced safety measures such as snorkel equipment.

The submarine has an overall length of 84m, beam of 9.1m and depth of 10.3m. The normal draft of the sub is 8.4m. It has a surfaced displacement of 2,950t and submerged displacement of 4,200t. The Soryu Class can complement a crew of 65 including nine officers and 56 enlisted members. The submarine can sail at a surfaced speed of 13kt and submerged speed of 20kt. It has a maximum range of 6,100nm at 6.5kt speed.

Weapon systems

The Soryu Class is fitted with six HU-606 533mm torpedo tubes for Type 89 torpedoes and UGM-84 Harpoon anti-ship missiles. The Harpoon has a range of over 124km and speed of 864km/h.

Type 89 is a wire-guided torpedo with active and passive homing modes. It has a maximum speed of 130km/h and can engage targets within the range of 50km. The torpedo can carry a warhead of 267kg.

Sensors / radars

The submarine is equipped with a ZPS-6F navigation or surface search radar. The sonar suite integrates four low frequency flank arrays, a bow-array and a towed array sonar.

Countermeasures

Soryu features ZLR-3-6 electronic support measures (ESM) systems. There are two 3in underwater countermeasure launcher tubes installed for launching acoustic device countermeasures (ADCs).

Propulsion

Soryu is powered by a diesel-electric propulsion system. Two Kawasaki 12V 25/25 SB-type diesel engines and four Kawasaki Kockums V4-275R Stirling engines provide a total power output of 2,900kW surfaced and 6,000kW submerged.

"Soryu features ZLR-3-6 electronic support measures systems."
Soryu is the first submarine of the JMSDF to be equipped with Stirling engines manufactured by Sweden-based Kockums.

Stirling is a silent and vibration-free external combustion engine. The Kockums Stirling air independent propulsion system onboard reduces the need for frequent battery charging surfaced and thus increases the submerged endurance of the submarine.

The electric propulsion motor drives a propeller through a single shaft. The submarine is also fitted with an X rudder to provide high manoeuvrability to the submarine when operating very close to the seabed. This X rudder configuration was initially developed by Kockums for the Swedish Gotland class. The propulsion system provides a maximum speed of 20kt.

SS Soryu Class Submarines - Naval Technology



View attachment 223145

View attachment 223147

View attachment 223148

Kindly note that the above post mentions 3 classes of submarines but states two as active. The Harushio -class submarines will be removed from active service, and will be used only for training purposes.
 
.
What Japan's 'Proactive Contribution to Peace' Looks Like in Nepal

BN-IC904_jkatre_G_20150428011647.jpg


On April 25, Nepal was hit by a 7.8-magnitude earthquake. Less than a month later, a second, 7.3-magnitude earthquake struck on May 12, followed (as the first quake had been) by numerous aftershocks. As of Sunday, May 17, Nepal’s Home Ministry has confirmed a death toll of at least 8,583, making this the most devastating and deadly disaster of Nepal’s history. As the rescue effort continues, the numbers of those who perished will no doubt continue to climb.

After the first earthquake, Japan was one of the countries that reached out to Nepal most quickly to provide various forms of disaster relief. To start, Tokyo immediately announced that it would provide a $14 million emergency grant aid package to Nepal, much of which will be disbursed through international organizations such as the World Food Program, the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies, and the United Nations Children’s Fund. Japan has always been quick to donate money, particularly given its own experience with major natural disasters, and this time was no exception. This time, however, we are seeing Japan’s “whole-of-the-government” approach to international emergency assistance, which embodies Japan’s “proactive contribution to peace.”

The Japanese government has three main tools for emergency assistance: dispatch of the Japan Disaster Relief (JDR) team, the provision of emergency relief goods, and emergency grant aid. In the case of Nepal, the timely dispatch of the JDR was particularly noteworthy. Getting relief efforts underway within 72 hours after a large-scale disaster is considered critical in disaster relief. Japan managed to dispatch its two inter-agency JDR teams — one focused on search and rescue/recovery and the other for medical support — to Nepal within 48 hours after the first big earthquake hit. Japan’s Self-Defense Forces (SDF) followed the next day to provide medical assistance and airlifts. Since the calamity first hit Nepal last month, Japan’s JDR teams have engaged in the following relief activities:

  • Search and Rescue: A inter-agency search-and-rescue team of 70 personnel from MOFA, JICA, National Police Agency, Fire and Disaster Management Agency, and Japan Coast Guard was dispatched on April 26. The team concluded their operations and returned to Japan after two weeks.
  • Medical: The first team of 46, composed of medical practitioners across Japanese government agencies, was sent on April 27 for approximately two weeks,. The second team of 34 personnel was sent on May 7.
  • Relief operations by the SDF: Following a small pre-deployment assessment team, 20 SDF medical personnel were dispatched on April 28, to be followed by a group of approximately 110 personnel. The SDF has also been involved in airlift operations.
Today, the JDR medical support team and SDF continue their relief effort in Nepal.

As the Japanese Diet enters a fierce debate on the national defense legislation package this week, all eyes are on how the suggested legislative changes will enable the SDF to play a more active role in a situation that may require the use of force. While that debate is no doubt critical, the effective and timely inter-agency response displayed by Japan in in the immediate aftermath of the worst earthquake in Nepal’s recent history deserve greater attention, as it is nothing but a demonstration of Japan’s unwavering commitment to a proactive contribution to peace.

934015.jpg


nepal-rescue.jpg


japan-aid-nepal.jpg


nepal-apr30-saving-c.jpg


From What Japan’s ‘Proactive Contribution to Peace’ Looks Like in Nepal | The Diplomat

@Nihonjin1051
 
. . . .

Latest posts

Pakistan Defence Latest Posts

Pakistan Affairs Latest Posts

Back
Top Bottom