Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has officially delivered the third Miyako-class large patrol vessel, named JCG Amami (PL-204), to the Japan Coast Guard in a ceremony held in Tamano, Okayama Prefecture. This addition is part of Japan’s strategic initiative from 2016 aimed at bolstering its maritime presence in response to escalating threats in its territorial waters.
The JCG Amami will be stationed at the 10th Regional Coast Guard Headquarters in Kyushu, where it will undertake crucial responsibilities in offshore security, maritime rescue operations, maintaining public order, and protecting marine resources. This deployment underscores Japan’s commitment to strengthening its maritime capabilities amid rising regional tensions.
Mitsubishi Heavy Industries is progressing as planned with the delivery of the Miyako-class vessels, having already provided the lead ship along with two sister vessels between 2020 and 2024. According to the terms of the current defense framework, the Japan Coast Guard is set to receive two additional vessels later this year and will welcome three more by 2028, further enhancing its fleet.
The Miyako-class vessels are specifically designed for modern challenges at sea, measuring 117 meters (384 feet) in length and equipped with two 40-millimeter machine guns for defense. Powering the vessel are four Yanmar 8EY33W diesel engines, which generate a remarkable 24,000 horsepower, allowing the Amami to reach speeds exceeding 25 knots (46 kilometers or 29 miles per hour). Additionally, the vessel boasts a significant carrying capacity of 3,500 tons (3,175,147 kilograms), distinguishing it from other patrol vessel classes currently operated by the Japan Coast Guard.
Prior to the arrival of the Amami, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries celebrated the christening and launch of the sixth Miyako platform, the JCG Daito (PL-206), also in Tamano, signaling a continued commitment to maritime security.
In a broader context of military enhancement, Japan has been actively expanding its naval capabilities. Earlier this year, the country commissioned its fourth and final Awaji-class mine countermeasures vessel and the fourth Taigei-class diesel-electric hybrid attack submarine. In February, the final Hibiki-class oceanic survey ship was inaugurated in Okayama, dedicated to acoustic-based surface and seabed monitoring. Furthermore, in June 2024, the Japanese government plans to launch the ninth Mogami-class guided-missile frigate as part of a comprehensive expansion plan that includes adding 12 new warships by 2028.
The ongoing development and deployment of advanced maritime vessels signal Japan’s proactive approach to ensuring the security of its waters and maintaining peace in an increasingly complex regional environment.
