What is your opinion of modern Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force destroyers?
Short answerThe criticism is visual rather than operational: some look overly slab-sided, and radar shaping alone does not excuse poor proportions.
NotesSome modern Japanese destroyers are criticized as looking like slabs of concrete despite broader admiration for Japanese design. Straight, radar-conscious surfaces explain part of the appearance. They do not require an unattractive ship, because radar shaping can still be handled with visual discipline. The technical constraint remains separate from the choices that give a warship presence.