KHI hands over new Taigei-class submarine to JMSDF

Japanese shipbuilding company Kawasaki Heavy Industries (KHI) has delivered the submarine Raigei to the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).

As disclosed, the delivery ceremony took place at KHI’s Kobe Shipyard Nishihama Quay on March 6, 2025.

The vessel is the fourth Taigei class submarine, and the 31st built at Kawasaki Kobe Shipyard after World War II.

The construction of the vessel started back in March 2021, while the unit was launched in October 2023. The submarine measures 84 meters in length, has a depth of 9 meters, and a displacement of 3,000 tons. It features underwater launch tubes.

According to the company, the submarine offers “superior submerged operation and propulsion performance”, and has high water pressure resistance by using high-strength steel for its pressure hull.

Additionally, it also has lithium-ion battery systems for increased underwater endurance, a variety of automated systems, improved surveillance capabilities using high-performance sonar, increased stealth capabilities, enhanced safety measures, and several facilities for female crew members.

In 2023, JMSDF held a delivery and commissioning ceremony for the second vessel in this class, JS Hakugei.