Updated From Soryu-class
Known for their top-class stealthiness, Japan’s Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) currently operates three types of attack submarines: the Oyashio-class, the Soryu-class, and the latest Taigei-class that was added to the fleet in 2022.
The name “Taigei (big whale)” is indeed fitting for a state-of-the-art submarine that has grown up to 3,000 tons.
- General Overview
| Displacement | 3,000 tons (standard) |
| Length | 84m (275ft) |
| Beam | 9.1m (29.9ft) |
| Crew | 65 members |
| Surface Speed | 13 knots (24km/h, 14.9mph) |
| Underwater Speed | 20 knots (35km/h, 21.7mph) |
| Depth | 700〜900m (2,300〜2,950ft) |
| Armament | 533mm Torpedoes Harpoon Anti-Ship Missiles |
| Cost | 800 million USD |
The Taigei-class is an upgraded version of the previous Soryu-class submarines, sharing the same Air-Independent Propulsion (AIP) to extend the duration of submerged operations.
However, whereas the Soryu-class adopted “Stirling engines” except for the last two vessels, the new Taigei-class chose lithium-ion batteries instead, leading to better tranquility and sustainability.
As a result, the Taigei-class can stay submerged up to one month in power-saving mode, and the new “snorkel power generation system” enables the submarine to recharge while being underwater.
But, although the lithium-ion batteries allow for shorter recharging time, their larger size compared to Stirling engines resulted in the Taigei-class outweighing the Soryu-class by 100 tonnes.
The Taigei-class has also enhanced its detection capabilities with a new sonar using fiber optic technology and is equipped with the latest Type 18 torpedo. This torpedo has an image-sensor to counter any decoys and can track targets even in shallow waters where acoustic scattering messes around the scanners.
Additionally, shock-absorbing materials were installed between each equipment and the hull to reduce transmission of vibrations, which not only absorb shockwaves to protect precision instruments, but also extinguish noises in general.
Designed For Female Submariners
Perhaps the most groundbreaking feature of the Taigei-class is that it was the first submarine designed with female crew in mind.
Until 2018, women were not allowed to serve on submarines due to the confined space and unique working environment. But, such restrictions were finally lifted in order to deal with constant labor shortages and maintain a fleet of 22 submarines.
In this manner, JMSDF welcomed its first female submariners in 2020, and the Taigei-class was designed to accommodate these new members from the start.
One prime example is the living quarters designated for female crew members . The compartment is installed with partition curtains and lockable doors, separating it from other sections of the ship.
Furhtermore, the shower room doors are also equipped with modern locks and curtains for privacy, ensuring that others cannot enter when occupied.
With more female submariners to come, the Taigei-class symbolize the future of JMSDF submarines both in terms of capability and gender equality.
The current budget has approved for a construction of six vessels to replace the aging Oyashio-class submarines, but this number is projected to increase.
As China’s submarine fleet grows both in numbers and performance, maintaining qualitative superiority is crucial for Japan, highlighting the significance of the Taigei-class submarines.
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