Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has launched the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s JS Chogei submarine at its Kobe shipyard.
Chogei, meaning “big whale” in Japanese, is the fifth out of eight planned Taigei-class attack submarines. However, this number may increase to effectively respond to regional security dynamics.
Under a 2021 budget allocation, this underwater vessel cost approximately 64.8 billion yen ($443 million) to build and is expected to be operational in the Japanese Navy by March 2026.
The first submarine, eponymously named Taigei, was commissioned in March 2022.
Big Whale
Taigei-class submarines feature “gei” (whale) in their names, symbolizing their size and power for advanced underwater operations.
The JS Chogei is powered by two Kawasaki 12V25/25SB diesel engines and utilizes lithium-ion batteries, allowing for longer travel at higher speeds underwater. It can reach a top speed of 20 knots (23 miles/37 kilometers per hour) while submerged.
The vessel has a displacement of around 3,000 tons, which surpasses that of the Soryu-class submarines, though both share the same dimensions, measuring 84 meters (275 feet) in length with an overall beam of 9.1 meters (29 feet).
Equipped with a high-performance sonar system featuring fiber optic technology, this submarine boasts enhanced detection capabilities while maintaining a high level of stealth.
In terms of armament, it can deploy Type 18 heavyweight torpedoes and UGM-84L Harpoon Block II anti-ship missiles.
The Chogei accommodates a crew of 70, including a separate compartment for six female crew members, a first for Japanese submarines.