Mashū-class

The Mashū-class is a series of fast combat support ships operated by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). Designated with the hull classification symbol AOE, the class was designed as an enlarged and improved successor to the preceding Towada-class replenishment ships. Two vessels were planned and completed. Shipbuilders for the class included the Hitachi Shipbuilding Corporation in Maizuru and Ishikawajima-Harima Heavy Industries in Tokyo.

The propulsion system consists of Kawasaki Rolls-Royce Spey SM1C gas turbines driving twin shafts. Sensor and electronic warfare systems include the OPS-28 Surface Search RDF, the OPS-20 Navigation RDF, the NOLR-8 RDF Interceptor, and Mk.137 decoy launchers. For defense, the design allows for the installation of Phalanx Close-In Weapon Systems (CIWS). The vessels are equipped with a helicopter deck and an enclosed hangar capable of housing a helicopter.

The class consists of two active vessels: JS Mashū (AOE-425) and JS Ōmi (AOE-426). JS Mashū was laid down on 21 January 2002, launched on 5 February 2003, and completed on 15 March 2004. JS Ōmi was laid down on 7 February 2003, launched on 19 February 2004, and completed on 3 March 2005. Both vessels were commissioned on 3 April 2006. JS Mashū operates from its homeport of Maizuru, and JS Ōmi is homeported at Yokosuka. In terms of deployment, JS Mashū operated in the Persian Gulf during September 2006. Both vessels remain active.