Japan's 'Big Whale' submarines add another weapon to bottle up China's navy

Sat, 02/10/2024 - 06:00

Japan has built one Taigei-class attack submarine every year since 2020. The lead ship seen here was commissioned in 2022.
Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force

Japan has launched a new Taigei-class sub every year since 2020.
These "Big Whale" subs are expected to hunt Chinese warships should a war break out.
Their advanced capabilities and stealth make them prime candidates for ambushes on Chinese warships.

In October, Kawasaki Heavy Industries launched Japan’s newest submarine in a ceremony at its shipyard in Kobe, Japan. Named, JS Raigei (“Thunder Whale” in Japanese), the diesel-electric attack sub is the fourth boat of the Taigei-class, which translates to “big whale.”