Japan Launches New Generation OPV Patrol Vessels

Japan has launched two new patrol vessels Sakura and Tachibana.

On November 13, the naming and launching ceremony of two new patrol vessels took place at the Isogo shipyard of Japan Marine United in Yokohama, the Military Japan Telegram channel reported.

The fleet has been replenished with #Sakura (さくら) with the board number OPV-901 and #Tachibana (たちばな) OPV-902 (Offshore Patrol Vessel).

Both ships were built as part of a large-scale program to upgrade Japan’s maritime security forces.

The Sakura is scheduled to be commissioned in January 2027 and will be the first in a new series.

“The Tachibana is due to join the force in February 2027, completing the first phase of the program.

The hulls of these ships were laid down on February 14, 2025, and in a little more than six months, JMU has built two full-fledged OPVs at once.

The Japanese shipyards emphasize the high scalability and speed of construction, which allowed the first pair to be completed in a short time.

The next pair of patrol vessels of this type is expected to be launched in March 2026, which confirms the stability of the production cycle.

The new OPVs will enhance Japan’s patrol and response capabilities in regional waters amid growing security challenges in the Pacific.

Characteristics of the Sakura/Tachibana OPV:

• Length: approximately 120 m
• Beam: approx. 15 m
• Displacement: approximately 4,000 tons
• Crew: 50-60 people + modular working groups
• Maximum speed: 22-25 knots
• Range: up to 6,000 nautical miles

Kawasaki recently launched the sixth submarine of the latest Taigei type with lithium-ion batteries.