Japan’s Modified Izumo Carrier Is Nearing Completion

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The Japanese aircraft carrier—in function, if not in name—will soon be ready to carry F-35B Lightning II fighter jets.

The Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) released the first images of its JS Izumo following modifications to the warship’s flight deck, which were made to accommodate operations with the F-35B, the short takeoff and vertical landing (STOVL) variant of the Joint Strike Fighter. The vessel’s original trapezoidal design, narrowed at the front, offered a sleeker look but limited the flattop’s ability to operate with the fixed-wing aircraft.

The ongoing installation of a rectangular bow has changed the appearance of JS Izumo. More importantly, however, it has also increased the flight deck’s size, enabling safer, more efficient operations for the fifth-generation stealth fighters. The new layout reduces risks associated with the landing of the fixed-wing aircraft.

“The escort vessel Izumo has reached a milestone in the modification work to alter the bow shape related to its special refit, and took a commemorative photo with those involved,” the JMSDF announced in a post on X (formerly Twitter) earlier this week. “Preparations are steadily progressing........

© The National Interest