Amid rising naval activity near its maritime borders, particularly from China and Russia, Japan has begun production of a new series of advanced patrol vessels for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). The initiative aims to bolster Japan’s maritime surveillance and defense capabilities. The program involves constructing twelve ships, with the first four having their keels laid in February 2025 at the Japan Marine United shipyard.

Each vessel, with an estimated cost of ¥9 billion, will be equipped with stealth features to reduce radar cross-section, advanced automation for operation by a reduced crew of just 30, and specialized equipment for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. The first two vessels are slated for launch in November 2025, with the other two following in March 2026.

The ships will be designed with a modular approach, allowing rapid reconfiguration for various missions. They will feature multifunction hangars, flexible decks, and systems capable of launching different types of missiles, including anti-ship, anti-air, and anti-submarine missiles. Additionally, the vessels will support the deployment of drones, such as the V-BAT UAV, to extend surveillance reach.

Although these ships will enhance Japan’s maritime monitoring capabilities, they are not expected to be deployed in the most contested regions, such as the Senkaku Islands. The new patrol vessels represent Japan`s pragmatic rearmament strategy, focusing on cost-effectiveness, low maintenance, and minimal crew while offering substantial future upgrade potential. This development marks an important evolution in the JMSDF’s capability to address growing maritime security challenges.