Japan's Izumo-class carrier JS Kaga to conduct F-35B operational tests off San Diego.

According to information published by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force on September 10, 2024, the JMSDF announced that it will conduct a developmental test of the Izumo-class helicopter carrier JS Kaga (DDH-184) to assess the ship's ability to operate F-35B fighter jets. Supported by U.S. forces, the test is scheduled to take place between October 5 and November 18, 2024, off the coast of San Diego.
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A F-35B Lightning II, operated by the U.S. Marine Corps' Marine Fighter Attack Squadron (VMFA) 242, executes a short takeoff from the deck of the Japanese vessel Izumo, off the coast of Japan. (Picture source: Dvids)

The primary objective of the exercise is to gather critical data on the integration of F-35B operations aboard the Izumo-class vessels. These trials will include short take-offs and vertical landings, both of which are essential capabilities for the shipborne deployment of the F-35B.

Transformation into light aircraft carriers

The transformation of Japan's two Izumo-class vessels, JS Izumo and JS Kaga, into light aircraft carriers marks a pivotal shift in Japan’s maritime capabilities. Originally designed as helicopter destroyers, these ships are undergoing extensive modifications to enable operations of F-35B fighters, which feature short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) capabilities.

The first phase of the transformation for JS Izumo was completed in 2021, with significant upgrades to the flight deck, including the application of heat-resistant coatings and the installation of guidance systems for F-35B operations. This was demonstrated by successful takeoff and landing tests conducted by U.S. Marine Corps F-35Bs later that year. The second phase for Izumo, set to begin in 2024, will involve reshaping the bow to a rectangular form, further enhancing F-35B compatibility. The overall modifications are expected to be finished by 2027.

JS Kaga, the second vessel, began its transformation in 2022, and the modifications have been more extensive compared to Izumo. Key changes include the reshaping of the bow, the addition of heat-resistant deck spots, and the reinforcement of the deck to support the heavier F-35Bs. Kaga's full conversion is also expected to be completed by 2027, after additional interior modifications during its next overhaul in 2026.

These upgrades reflect Japan's growing focus on enhancing its defensive capabilities in the Pacific, particularly with the backdrop of increasing regional tensions. The Izumo-class carriers, once equipped with F-35Bs, will significantly expand Japan's naval air defense reach, especially around the disputed Senkaku Islands and throughout the Indo-Pacific.

This transformation aligns with Japan’s broader strategic goals to improve its maritime force projection, in coordination with allies like the U.S., which also operates F-35Bs on similar amphibious assault ships. China, meanwhile, has expressed concerns over Japan's remilitarization efforts, viewing these carrier conversions as a potential revival of Japan's pre-World War II military posture.