Summary
Japan is upgrading two of its naval ships, the JS Izumo and JS Kaga, to function as aircraft carriers that can operate F-35B jets. These changes are part of Japan's defense strategy in response to increased military activity by China in the region. The upgrades are expected to be completed by 2027 and 2028.
Key Facts
- Satellite images show changes to Japan's naval ship JS Izumo to convert it into a carrier for F-35B jets.
- The upgrades convert two helicopter destroyers, the Izumo and Kaga, into aircraft carriers for the first time since World War II.
- The work is set to finish by the fiscal years 2027 for Izumo and 2028 for Kaga.
- Changes include reshaping the ship's bow to better launch F-35B jets, which can take off in short distances and land vertically.
- The Izumo and Kaga will join U.S. vessels USS George Washington and USS Tripoli to counter the Chinese Navy.
- Japan has received its first F-35B jets and has plans for 42 in total.
- The ships' classification has been updated from helicopter destroyers to aircraft-carrying multi-role cruisers.
- The upgrades are part of a strategy to deter potential aggression from China in nearby disputed waters.
