Japan has commissioned one of the most advanced conventional submarines in the world, with the Raigei being the latest in a class of hunter-killer vessels designed to operate in the relatively shallow seas around the country.
The diesel-electric Raigei – or Thunder Whale – was completed at Kawasaki Heavy Industry’s shipyards in Kobe and is the fourth vessel in the Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force’s (MSDF) Taigei class of submarines.
Its launch on Thursday also meets Japan’s maritime defence needs with its ability to conduct stealth operations in tight bodies of water and also reflects the country’s aversion to nuclear-powered submarines, according to analysts.
At 84 metres from bow to stern, a displacement of 3,000 tons and a crew of 70, the Raigei has an ultra-quiet diesel-electric propulsion system that combines a diesel engine and lithium-ion batteries. Its six torpedo tubes can fire the MSDF’s Type-18 torpedoes and also launch the Harpoon all-weather anti-shipping missiles from below the surface.
While the Raigei is smaller than the nuclear submarines operated by other major naval powers, it has been designed to meet Japan’s unique needs, analysts say.
There were good reasons why Japan chose conventional submarines rather than going down the nuclear-powered route, said Garren Mulloy, a professor of international relations at Daito Bunka University and a specialist in military issues.
