Japan to unveil new submarine at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries naming and launch ceremony.

According to information published by the Japanese MoD on October 2, 2024, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) will host the naming and launch ceremony for the fifth Taigei-class submarine at its Kobe shipyard. The official name of the vessel will remain undisclosed until the conclusion of the ceremony.
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Japanese Navy's Taigei-class submarine. (Picture source: Japanese MoD)

The Taigei-class submarines represent a significant advancement in Japan’s undersea warfare capabilities, succeeding the Soryu-class within the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). Designed to improve stealth, endurance, and combat efficiency, these submarines showcase cutting-edge technology while maintaining a traditional diesel-electric propulsion system, supported by the innovative use of lithium-ion batteries.

The shift to lithium-ion batteries allows the Taigei-class submarines to operate underwater for longer periods compared to their predecessors, without the need for an air-independent propulsion (AIP) system. This is particularly important for enhancing the stealth profile, as it reduces the need to surface frequently, thus minimizing detection risks. Additionally, these batteries offer higher energy efficiency and are compact, allowing for more effective power management during extended missions.

Structurally, the Taigei-class maintains a similar size to the Soryu-class but incorporates a redesigned pressure hull made from high-strength steel, enhancing its durability under extreme underwater pressure. The acoustic signature has been further reduced through the use of new sound-absorbing materials and a floating floor structure, ensuring quieter operations—critical for stealth missions in contested waters.

On the operational side, the Taigei-class submarines are equipped with advanced sonar systems that improve detection capabilities, especially in tracking other submarines and vessels in complex maritime environments. The combat management systems have been upgraded to integrate various sensors and weapons more seamlessly. These submarines carry an array of armaments, including the Mitsubishi-built Type 89 torpedoes and UGM-84 Harpoon Block II missiles, providing both anti-submarine and anti-ship strike capabilities.

The lead vessel, JS Taigei, entered service in 2022 and serves as a test platform for future JMSDF submarine technologies, while its successors like Hakugei and Jingei are fully operational units