Now or never for Australia (Analysis)
As the ramifications of AUKUS begin to become clearer, Australia must grapple with various practical, technological and economic factors if it is to achieve its ambitions.
Japan launches second Taigei-class submarine
Hakugei launches at Kawasaki Heavy Industries Kobe Works shipyard. (Photo: JMSDF via Twitter)
The future JS Hakugei is Japan’s fourth lithium-ion battery-equipped submarine, following Taigei and the final two boats of the Soryu-class.
Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) has launched the second Taigei-class submarine, Hakugei, at its Kobe Works shipyard.
Officials from the country's MoD attended the launch ceremony on 14 October.
Construction of the second-in-class submarine for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) began in January 2019, and Hakugei is expected to be completed in March 2023.
Japan launched the first of the new diesel-electric submarine class, Taigei, in October 2020.
Shephard previously reported that the Taigei-class is powered by lithium-ion batteries, which the JMSDF believes offers advantages in endurance and maintenance when compared to lead-acid batteries.
Shephard Defence Insight notes up to seven boats are planned to supplement the Soryu-class.
The Taigei-class submarines are being built by KHI and Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.
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