Japan planning first carriers since WWII

Japan is looking to introduce its first aircraft carriers since World War II, in a move seen as a major departure from the country’s defence-oriented policy amid growing concerns over China’s naval expansion

IZUMO-CLASS HELICOPTER DESTROYER
Two largest ships in Japanese Navy – Izumo and Kaga – could be converted to carry U.S.-made F-35B stealth jets

Length  248 metres
Speed   Over 30 knots (56km/h)
Helicopters  Up to 14 (anti-submarine and search and rescue)
Crew  470 (plus 500 troops)

F-35B capable of short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL)

Japan is reportedly preparing to order 100 more F-35s, adding to 42 jets already planned

Possible fixed-wing aircraft At least 12 F-35Bs

Aircraft elevators: Two

Propulsion: Four gas turbines developing 112,000-hp (84,000kW)

Armament: Two Phalanx guns and two SeaRAM missile launchers

CARRIER COMPARISON
Displacement (tonnes) 

Nimitz-class U.S. 100,000 
Queen Elizabeth UK 65,000
Shandong China 63,500
Charles de Gaulle France 42,000 
Izumo Japan 27,000

CHINA
Tokyo
JAPAN
Pacific
Ocean 500km
300 miles
 
Carriers could bolster air defence of far-flung Senkaku (Diaoyu) Islands, also claimed by China



Sources: Global Security, IHS Jane’s, Naval Technology, Popular Mechanics © GRAPHIC NEWS