Hyuga-class

The Hyūga-class helicopter destroyer is a class of two ships operated by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). Designated as goei-kan (escort ship) in Japanese, the vessels were built by IHI Marine United to replace the Shirane class. During development, the ships were identified by the provisional designations 16DDH and 18DDH, referencing the years of the Heisei reign in which they were authorized. The class is named after Hyūga and Ise provinces, inheriting the names of Imperial Japanese Navy hybrid battleship-carriers that served in World War II.

The class is designed for anti-submarine warfare and serves as a flagship with command-and-control facilities. The design features a continuous flight deck and an enclosed hangar to facilitate helicopter operations. Primary aircraft include the SH-60K for anti-submarine roles and the MCH-101 for transport and mine countermeasures. The vessels also possess the capacity to operate larger helicopters such as the CH-53 Sea Stallion and have conducted flight operations with JGSDF AH-64D Apache attack helicopters and United States Marine Corps MV-22B Ospreys. Propulsion utilizes a COGAG (Combined Gas and Gas) configuration with gas turbines driving two shafts.

Integrated sensors and electronic systems include the ATECS (advanced technology command system), the OYQ-10 advanced combat direction system, and the FCS-3 fire control system utilizing active electronically scanned array radar. For self-defense, the class is equipped with a Mk 41 Vertical Launching System (VLS) for Evolved Sea Sparrow Missiles and RUM-139 VL ASROC. Additional armament consists of Phalanx Close-In Weapon Systems (CIWS), triple torpedo tubes, and machine guns.

JS Hyūga (DDH-181) was commissioned in 2009, followed by JS Ise (DDH-182) in 2011. Both vessels have participated in bilateral exercises and humanitarian operations. In 2009, JS Hyūga took part in Annualex 21G with the United States Navy to practice interoperability. Both ships were deployed for search and rescue and disaster relief following the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake and tsunami. JS Ise conducted relief operations in the Philippines following Typhoon Haiyan in 2013, providing supplies to isolated areas. In 2016, JS Hyūga supported relief efforts for the Kumamoto earthquake, during which it served as a platform for MV-22B Osprey operations.