Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 1:32:09-1:32:49

Japan's possible move toward LHDs and another carrier class

The Izumos count as light carriers in this assessment, with an LHD class and a separate carrier class suggested as possible next steps.

Aircraft CarriersAmphibious Assault ShipsHelicopter DestroyersIzumo Class Helicopter DestroyersJapan Maritime Self-Defense Force
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Question

What capabilities might Japan give a larger successor to its helicopter destroyers?

Short answer

An LHD class is considered the likely next step, followed by a separate carrier class; the older helicopter destroyers would retain their antisubmarine role.

Notes

The Izumos count as light aircraft carriers in this assessment. Older helicopter destroyers retain their role in leading antisubmarine warfare. A likely next step is an LHD class, followed by another class of carriers. This is a forecast of Japan's future construction, with no detailed design or capability specification offered.