Japan launches two more Sakura-class OPVs
The fourth Sakura-class OPV, seen here at its launching ceremony on 13 March 2026. (JMSDF)
Japan has named and launched two more Sakura-class offshore patrol vessels (OPVs).
The vessels entered the water at Japan Marine United Corporation's (JMUC's) Isogo shipyard in Yokohama on 13 March, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) said in a statement on the same day.
They will be known as JS Hinoki and JS Sugi with pennant numbers 103 and 104 respectively.
The Sakura class displaces about 1,920 tonnes at standard load and measures 95 m in length with a beam of 12 m and a draught of 4.2 m.
Its design employs a combined dieselâelectric and diesel (CODLAD) propulsion arrangement driving two shafts and includes a bow thruster to enhance manoeuvrability during closeâquarters operations.
The vessels are expected to reach top speeds of approximately 25 kt and can accommodate a crew size of about 30.
Images released by the JMSDF on 13 March indicate that the Sakura class features a lowâobservability hull form, presumably to reduce the radar crossâsection and improve survivability during maritime security operations.
A medium helicopter can be embarked on its flight deck, supported by a hangar and aviation facilities sized for rotaryâwing operations.
The OPVs will be armed with a 30 mm gun in the primary position.
Japan's Sakura-class OPV programme was conceived under the country's medium-term defence plans for the financial years spanning 2019 and 2023, which called for the introduction of a new patrol ship type to relieve highâvalue combatants from routine constabulary and presence missions.
Subsequently, Japan's Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) revealed in July 2021 that work on a nextâgeneration OPV concept was under way.
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