Japan Marine United launched two new offshore patrol vessels (OPVs) at its shipyard in Yokohama on Friday, March 13.
The future JS Hinoki and JS Sugi (pictured) are the third and fourth OPVs to be built under the Sakura-class. Both ships will be delivered to the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF) upon completion.
The JMSDF will welcome a total of 12 Sakura-class OPVs into service. Hinoki, Sugi, and earlier sister JS Sakura and JS Tachibana are scheduled to be commissioned into service by the first quarter of 2027.
Upon completion, each OPV will have a length of 95 metres, a beam of 12 metres, a draught of 4.2 metres, a depth of 7.7 metres, a displacement of 1,900 tons, and space for 30 crewmembers. A combined diesel-electric and diesel will deliver a maximum speed of 25 knots.
The vessels will be fitted with 30mm naval guns. There will be no provisions for guided missile armament.
Flight deck space will be available for use by unmanned aerial vehicles.
