Japanese Coast Guard to Build its Biggest Ship Ever

The Japan Coast Guard plans to build its biggest patrol ship to enhance its disaster and emergency response capabilities, officials announced Tuesday.

The coast guard's largest current patrol ship is 150 meters long and weighs 6,500 tons.

The new vessel will be approximately 200 meters in length and weigh about 30,000 tons.

Expected to enter service in fiscal 2029, the new vessel will transport disaster relief goods, evacuate residents, and handle contingencies like a potential conflict over Taiwan.

Estimated at ¥68 billion (approximately $460 million), the construction will seek ¥3.43 billion (about $24 million) in fiscal 2025 funding.

The ship will accommodate over 1,000 people, large vehicles, and three helicopters. It will also support maritime security at international conferences and patrol Japanese waters, including around the Senkaku islands.

The coast guard's fiscal 2025 budget request is a record ¥293.5 billion, a 12% increase from fiscal 2024.