Offshore Patrol Vessels for the Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force Launched

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The first and second ships of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s new patrol vessel class, Sakura and Tachibana, were launched by Japan Marine United (JMU) on November 13, 2025 (photo by Kosuke Takahashi).

Naval News reports the launch of the first two of twelve Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPV) for the Japanese Navy.

“The new patrol vessels measure 95 meters (312 ft) in length, with a standard displacement of 1,900 tons (about 2300 tons full load–Chuck), a depth of 7.7 meters, a draft of 4.2 meters, and a top speed of 25 knots (28.8 mph)…automation technologies have been implemented to reduce crew requirements, limiting the necessary personnel to just 30.”

These ships are particularly interesting because they will operate a relatively large ship with a small crew.

This low crew count is achieved through high levels of automation, including systems like the “Automatic Berthing and Unberthing Function” and an “Integrated Monitoring and Control System” that allows for remote firefighting.

To keep costs down, the ships are relatively simple but include Combined Diesel-eLectric And Diesel (CODLAD) propulsion. The design incorporates space for containerized mission modules below the flight deck.

We have been following this program since its inception.

Over the course of its development, the gun has gotten smaller; the length seems to have been reduced from 100 meters to 95; and the boat and unmanned systems handling facilities have been enclosed as the flight deck was extended to the stern.

Sakura class OPV Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force, at launch. (photo by Kosuke Takahashi).

Two features I was not aware of is that they will use the V-Bat UAS, also used by the USCG and a Mine Counter Measures role has been proposed.

Construction has been very rapid. These two ships were laid down on February 14, 2025. The first four ships are expected to be delivered in 2027.

These will be the first OPVs in Japanese Navy. It is not unusual for navies to include OPVs if they do not have a sea-going Coast Guard, as is the case with the UK, France, and the Netherlands, but Japan has one of the largest Coast Guards in the world, with more large patrol cutters than the USCG. India also has a large Coast Guard and operates OPVs in both its Navy and Coast Guard.

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