Taigei-class is built on the Soryu-class but is 100 tons heavier and has more advanced sonar, snorkel system, electronics and more lithium batteries for greater underwater range.
Taigei-class submarine is capable of launching the UGM-84A Harpoon missile (over-the-horizon about 90 km range).
- 3,000 ton Diesel/Electric with li-ion batteries
- 275.5 feet long
- Acoustic absorbent materials
- Improved survivability features
- 6 533 millimeter tube launchers
$720 million base price, do not wait long or you will have to get in line.
Japan is the first to use lithium batteries in subs. They store a much greater charge, charge much faster (less time exposed on surface) and enable the sub to cruise submerged at near nuclear sub speed.
Japan was looking for export markets for this sub to recoup some of its development costs.
The Australian navy wanted to build this vessel but because Japan was unwilling to reveal how it makes its steel and hull and other security concerns, this did not happen. Australia eventually went with a more conventional french shortfin design, for its 12 built at home submarine program.
Canada, not like Australia, could really use the Taigei-class submarine with its great stealth and speed for under ice, in our arctic waters. Capable of diving (600+ meters) which is deeper than most torpedoes and other subs can go. This would enable the submarine to fire its torpedo then dive to avoid a counter attack. These subs would send a clear message– Canadian arctic and its passage, is Canada’s to control. Somehow Canada managed to sign away its right to purchase a nuclear solution (we would have to build the reactor). Basically the Americans do not want us in their way, in our arctic waters. Canada should buy 6 of these for no other reason than to piss off the Americans, who plan on controlling the northwest passage alone, if Canada is unwilling to step up.
image sources
- Launch_Ceremony_of_SS_Taigei: 海上自衛隊, | CC BY 4.0 International