The Izumo-class helicopter carrier (locally classified as “helicopter destroyer”) JS Kaga (DDH 184) went through modification work in order to operate the Lockheed Martin F-35B fighter aircraft.
According to a JMSDF press release issued today, the operational tests will be conducted with the support of the U.S. Navy in connection with the special modification of the destroyer Kaga. The purpose of the tests is to “collect the data necessary for the operation of the F-35B on the Izumo-class destroyers.” Tests such as the short takeoff, vertical landing, and on-board operation of the F-35B are scheduled to be conducted.
The operational tests of JS Kaga will be conducted as part of its “Indo-Pacific Deployment 2024” (IPD24) deployment.
As reported by Naval News, the modifications on the two Izumo-class helicopter carriers – JS Izumo (DDH 183) and JS Kaga (DDH 184) – are underway in two main stages to coincide with the vessels’ periodic refit and overhaul programs, which take place every five years. The JMSDF expects both ships to complete all of the upgrades to become a light aircraft carrier operating F-35B fighters around fiscal year 2027.
Japan Marine United (JMU) started refit work on Kaga at the company’s Kure shipyard in Hiroshima in March 2022. Its initial modifications include the modifications of the bow section of its flight deck into a square shape from a trapezoid, similar to that found on the US Navy’s Wasp-class and America-class amphibious assault ships. The first-stage modifications also include reinforcing the flight deck to support additional weight, placing additional guidance lights, drawing the yellow lines on the flight deck necessary for launching and landing F-35Bs, and fitting the ship with heat-resistant deck spots for vertical landings.
The Japanese Ministry of Defense (MoD) plans to procure a total of 42 F-35Bs, along with 105 F-35As. The F-35Bs are expected to be deployed to the Japan Air Self-Defense Force’s (JASDF’s) Nyutabaru Air Base on Kyushu Island. By deploying F-35Bs to Nyutabaru, Tokyo intends to enhance Japan’s ability to defend its remote southern islands, including those near the disputed Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands. These islands are controlled by Japan but claimed by China and Taiwan.
