The Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF) recently commissioned a new diesel-electric submarine into service.
JS Toryu ("Fighting Dragon") is the final one of 12 Soryu-class submarines built by Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) for the JMSDF. Construction commenced in January 2017 and was completed in March 2021.
The submarine has a length of 84 metres, a beam of 9.1 metres, a depth of 10.3 metres, a submerged displacement of 2,950 tonnes, and a propulsion system consisting of two Kawasaki 12V 25/25 SB-type diesel engines and a lithium-ion battery-powered electric motor. Its maximum surfaced and submerged speeds are 13 and 20 knots, respectively.
Armament includes Mitsubishi Type 89 torpedoes and Harpoon anti-ship missiles.
KHI said Toryu also boasts high water pressure resistance courtesy of its high-strength steel hull.
