Naval Historywith Dr. Alex

Q&A · 55:17-59:31

Modernizing Shokaku and Zuikaku for F-35B operations

Hypothetically restored Shokaku-class carriers could take F-35Bs after deck, lift and machinery changes, with helicopter assault use suggested first.

Aircraft CarriersF-35BJapan Maritime Self-Defense ForceShip ConversionShokaku Class Aircraft Carriers
Watch at this timeFull video guide
Question

How would Japan and other powers respond to brand-new Shokaku-class carriers appearing with modern radar and 76 mm guns?

Short answer

Japan could adapt them for F-35Bs by changing the decks, lifts and machinery, using them as helicopter assault ships first; US approval and Chinese protests are expected.

Notes

The scenario supplies brand-new Shokaku and Zuikaku hulls with modern radar and 76 mm OTO Melara guns. Their size is judged usable, but their flight decks would need strengthening for modern aircraft and their lifts would need attention, potentially through deck-edge replacements. Converting the machinery to gas-turbine or gas-electric propulsion is proposed to reduce the crewing burden on the JMSDF. F-35B operation is considered possible after these changes, with helicopter assault use available during the interim. The predicted reactions are US approval and Chinese objections. Extra Chinese construction is considered constrained by the naval building allocation already in use.