Hayabusa-class

The Hayabusa-class is a series of guided missile patrol boats operated by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). Development began as a successor to the PG 1-go class hydrofoils to address issues identified in the earlier design. The class was included in the 1999 fiscal year plan following an incident involving a North Korean vessel off the Noto Peninsula. Mitsubishi Shimonoseki constructed six boats between 2000 and 2004.

The hull uses a single-hull design with a V-shaped bottom. This configuration was selected for hull strength and stability at high speeds. Displacement was increased from the preceding class to improve seaworthiness. Stealth characteristics were integrated into the superstructure, tripod mast, and main gun housing to reduce radar reflection, with angles determined via computer simulation. Propulsion is provided by three gas turbine engines driving pump-jet propulsors.

Tactical operations are managed by the OYQ-8B Tactical Data Processing System and the AN/UYK-44 computer. Unlike the previous OYQ-5 system, the OYQ-8B supports Link 11 data links, allowing the class to share tactical data with other ships and aircraft. This integrates the vessels into the Maritime Operation Force System. Armament includes ship-to-ship missile launchers at the stern, a main gun on the forward deck, and machine guns located aft of the bridge.

The first two vessels, Hayabusa and Wakataka, were commissioned in 2002. Subsequent ships Otaka and Kumataka entered service in 2003, followed by Umitaka and Shirataka in 2004. All six units remain in active service.