JS Kumano

In 2015, the Japanese defense budget allocated funds to study the construction of a new "compact-type hull destroyer with additional multi-functional capabilities" as well as a new radar system for the destroyer.^[2] In the same year Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) unveiled the frigate's first concept model (30FF) which they have been developing with their own funds.^[3][4]

The 30DX design has an overall length of 130 metres (426 ft 6 in), breadth of 16 metres (52 ft 6 in), a standard displacement of 3,900 tons with a full load displacement of about 5,500 tons, and a maximum speed of over 30 knots (56 km/h; 35 mph).^[5] Weapons include a Mk 45 gun, two remote weapon stations above the bridge, 16 Mk 41 VLS at the bow, eight anti-ship missiles, one SeaRAM, an SH-60L helicopter, torpedoes and decoy launchers. It can also deploy and recover unmanned underwater vessels, unmanned surface vessels and sea mines from the rear ramp beneath the helideck.^[6] It is also expected to use a naval version of the Type 03 Chū-SAM.^[7]

Kumano was laid down on 30 October 2019 at Mitsui Engineering and Shipbuilding, Tamano and launched on 19 November 2020. She will be expected to be commissioned in March 2022.^[8][9]

While fitting out, her enclosed antenna was installed on 16 February 2021.^[10]

She began sea trials on 24 August 2021^[11] with likely missions of island defense, homeland patrol, and international tours.^[12][13]

Kumano was commissioned on 22 March 2022 and deployed to Yokosuka Naval Base.^[14]

When JS Kumano was completed, it was not equipped with VLS, but the budget for VLS will be appropriated later and VLS will be installed.^[15]

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  JS Kumano at Mitsui shipyard, Tamano on 19 November 2020.
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  JS Kumano at Mitsui shipyard, Tamano on 19 November 2020.
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  JS Kumano at Mitsui shipyard, Tamano on 19 November 2020.
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  JS Kumano at Mitsui shipyard, Tamano on 19 November 2020
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  JS Kumano at Langkawi for LIMA 2023
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  JS Kumano and USS Patriot, 18 November 2023.