Marking a new milestone in the strengthening of its capabilities, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) recently celebrated the naming and launch of its new Sakura-class ocean patrol vessels at the Japan Marine United shipyard in Isogo. The new units, named JS Sakura (OPV-901) and JS Tachibana (OPV-902), constitute the first generation of a new type of ship, formally classified as an Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV), designed specifically to reinforce surveillance tasks in the Japanese maritime environment.
According to the information released by Japan’s 2018 Defense Capability Enhancement Plan, the program for these new units envisions the construction of 12 vessels over a period of 10 years. Likewise, this effort must be understood within the framework of the sustained increase in Chinese and Russian naval and air activities in the area, which forces Tokyo to strengthen its presence around the archipelago, the southwestern islands, and the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Both patrol vessels, which began simultaneous construction in February 2025, are expected to enter service between January and February 2027 with the Maritime Self-Defense Force.
Based on what was mentioned above, in recent years Japan has sought to further strengthen its defense capabilities, taking into account that the region has become a strategic point for regional and extraregional countries. In this sense, the new ocean patrol vessels, which feature a more compact design but with longer endurance, will be deployed to fulfill a strategy of constant and extended maritime surveillance.
Technical characteristics of the Sakura class
According to official data and specialized sources, the new ships have a standard displacement of approximately 1,900 tons, with a length of around 95 meters and a beam of about 12 meters. Their maximum speed exceeds 20 knots. Thanks to a design focused on efficiency and the use of automation technologies, the required crew is reduced to about 30 people. The armament is light, limited to a 30 mm cannon, since the platform is not conceived for high-intensity naval combat but for surveillance and patrol missions. According to officially released information, both units, which began simultaneous construction in February 2025, are expected to enter service between January and February 2027 with the Maritime Self-Defense Force.
Surveillance capabilities and onboard systems
The Sakura class incorporates a multipurpose flight deck along with a small hangar, suitable for operating fixed-wing and rotary-wing UAVs. Taking this into account, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force has already confirmed that the UAV will be the V-BAT, which will greatly expand the ship’s surveillance range.
Despite having simpler sensors than those of a frigate (two navigation radars, EO/IR systems, satellite communications, and basic electronic detection equipment), the design provides for the operation of UAVs, UUVs, and USVs, turning the ship into a flexible platform for ISR missions and support in various maritime operations.
Continuation of the program
Lastly, according to what has been established by the JMSDF, the construction of ships three and four is progressing according to schedule, with the launch planned for March 2026, while the final objective is to operate six groups of two ships distributed across Japan’s regional bases.
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