Reported 8 months ago
The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's ninth-class frigate, 'Natori' (FFM-9), had its naming and launching ceremony at the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries shipyard in Nagasaki on June 24, 2024. Following outfitting and sea trials, the ship is set to be in service by 2025. Compared to the first ship 'Mogami' (FFM-1), which took 18 months from construction to launch, 'Natori,' which started construction on July 6 last year, was successfully launched in just 12 months. This demonstrates Japan's strong shipbuilding capability and is expected to enhance the maritime self-defense force's combat capabilities in response to the expanding threats from China.
Source: YAHOO