The Real Issue: Labor Shortage
The decade-long effort of achieving a fleet of “22 + 2” submarines has definitely strengthened Japan’s defense capabilities, but the Chinese Navy has also relentlessly grown during this period, further widening the gap between both parties.
In fact, some argue that even the current number is inadequate and at least 30 submarines are necessary to counter the Chinese Navy.
While this idea of additional expansion deserves to be considered, the fundamental challenge of recruiting enough personnel remains unsolved. Amidst the ongoing population decline, JMSDF is struggling to maintain its current number of sailors, and any possibility of a sudden increase is improbable.
Submarine duties are especially challenging compared to serving on surface vessels since submariners have to endure prolonged hours in confined spaces, often without any means to connect with their families.
They do receive additional allowances and priority in meal arrangements, but the demanding environment requires tenacity and a strong sense of duty. For the modern young generation who cannot live without smartphones and the internet, serving on a submarine may seem quite inconceivable.
Attracting the younger generation for such a job requires specific benefits, such as further increases in salary and additional bonuses. JMSDF would also have to address the issue of internet connectivity while carefully avoiding to sacrifice the submarine’s stealthiness.
It is impossible to attract more recruits without addressing this issue and efforts should be made to provide limited communication methods or alternative forms of entertainment.
Not all recruits join out of patriotism or sense of duty, and many see the job as a stable, well-paying occupation with benefits. Unless JMSDF acknowledges this reality, it would be difficult to appeal to the already diminishing pool of young generations.
The expansion from 16 to 22 submarines was certainly not an easy task, and it is unfortunately doubtful whether Japan can maintain the current status, let alone a fleet of 30 submarines.
The priority is to focus on retaining the existing submariners who are crucial in keeping the current fleet functional, and JMSDF can gain insights into securing future recruits by doing so.
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