Japan launches its second 30FFM frigate Kumano for Japanese Navy.

According to a Tweet published on November 19, 2020, Japan has launched its new 30FFM frigate "Kumano" for Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). This is the second ship of this class.
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Japan launches its second 30FFM frigate "Kumano" on November 19, 2020. (Picture source Twitter account @erudishion_pho)

The 30FFM is a new generation of multi-mission frigate built for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) by the Japanese companies Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) and Mitsui Engineering and Shipbuilding.

In August 2017, the Acquisition, Technology & Logistics Agency (ATLA) selected MHI and Mitsui Engineering and Shipbuilding as the prime contractor and subcontractor to construct the frigate. Construction of the first 30FFM frigates began in 2018. A total of twenty-two units is planned by 2032 and eight are currently under contract; a pair to be built each year.

The 30FFM CODAG propulsion (Combined diesel and gas) includes one Rolls-Royce MT30 gas turbine and two MAN Diesel engines. she can reach a top speed of 30+ knots. In May 2018, Navy Recognition has announced Rolls-Royce has been selected to supply its MT30 gas turbine to power the 30FFM, a new class of frigates for the Japan Maritime Self Defence Force (JMSDF).

The MT30 is the world’s most power-dense marine gas turbine in service today, a key feature for naval ships where high power in minimum space, whilst meeting the operational power demands of the future, is essential. The increased demand for power by the world’s navies is a clear trend and for Japan we will deliver a power rating in excess of 40 megawatts, the highest so far for this gas turbine unrestricted by global climate conditions.

The design of the 30FFM frigate is based on stealth technology used the research and development of the Mitsubishi X-2 Shinshin (then ATD-X) stealth fighter technology demonstrator, as both platforms are designed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. Along with stealth capabilities, the frigate also emphasizes on having a high level of automation. This allows the frigate to possess a low crew size of only 90 personnel compared to other ships of similar size. The ship will have an hangar and flight deck able to accomodate one SH-60L naval helicopter.

the 30FFM frigate will be armed with one 5 inch Mk-45 Mod 4 naval gun, two missile canisters for a total of 8 Type 17 anti-ship missiles, one SeaRAM, Type 12 torpedoes, 16-cell Mk-41 VLS, and two remote weapon stations.