Kawasaki starts building second 29SS-class sub for JMSDF

Construction has begun on the second unit of a new class of seven 3,000-tonne diesel-electric attack submarines slated for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).

The submarine has an estimated construction cost of ¥69.7 billion (US$640.5 million). It is expected to be commissioned into service in March 2023.

The new class of submarines, tentatively known as the 29SS-class, are being built at Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI). These will eventually supplement the JMSDF’s existing Soryu-class vessels.