Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has launched the seventh Taigei-class diesel-electric attack submarine for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force at its shipyard in Kobe, Hyōgo Prefecture.
Christened JS Shōgei (SS-519), the vessel will join a fleet of 10 successors to the military’s Sōryū-class boats operational since the early 2000s.
Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi selected the ship’s name, which translates to “soaring whale,” from candidates submitted by military units.
Following its introduction, Mitsubishi will continue outfitting work on the submarine’s hull, engines, electrical systems, and armament.
Tokyo is scheduled to receive the vessel by 2027.
The Taigei Submarine
Mitsubishi’s Taigei design utilizes lithium-ion batteries to extend underwater endurance and enhance acoustic stealth, while utilizing upgraded sonar capabilities and structural noise reduction to minimize acoustic signatures.
The submarine is built with an 84-meter (276-foot) long hull and a 9-meter (30-foot) beam. It accommodates up to 40 people and includes dedicated living quarters for female crew members.
Taigei moves at up to 20 knots (37 kilometers/23 miles per hour) using two Kawasaki diesel engines with an overall output of 6,000 horsepower.
For lethality, the vessel could fire various heavyweight torpedoes, surface-to-surface missiles, and the Hyper Velocity Gliding Projectile being developed as part of Japan’s ballistic arsenal.
