Japan Navy JS Akashi Commissioned

The oceanographic research ship JS Akashi (AGS-5107) was delivered and commissioned at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries' Shimonoseki Shipyard on 9 March 2026, Asian Military Review reported, and reached her home port of Yokosuka on 12 March. Launched in May 2025, the 3,500-tonne ship collects seabed, water-temperature and other oceanographic data used in naval operations, notably anti-submarine warfare. She replaces JS Wakasa, the oldest ship in Maritime Self-Defense Force service, which was decommissioned ten days later.