After years of development and billions of dollars invested, Japan’s new aircraft carrier is finally ready for action. The JS Izumo, the largest warship in Japan’s naval fleet, has completed modifications to enable it to carry and operate F-35B stealth fighter jets.

The total costs of upgrading the Izumo have exceeded $1.5 billion USD. This includes reinforcements to the flight deck to withstand jet exhaust and heat, enhanced command and control systems, and modifications to accommodate munitions storage and handling. An additional $300 million was spent purchasing F-35Bs from the United States to deploy on the carrier.

The modifications to the Izumo signify a major shift in Japan’s defensive strategy. Since World War II, Japan has not maintained offensive military capabilities including aircraft carriers in accordance with its pacifist constitution. However, the rise of China as a regional military power has led Japan to take more proactive measures to protect its territorial interests.

The Izumo will primarily function as an anti-submarine carrier given recent increased Chinese submarine activity in the Pacific. Its complement of stealth fighters will enable Japan to better assert control over the airspace around its borders. Additionally, the capabilities of the Izumo could allow Japan to conduct long-range naval operations farther from its shores.

While some criticize Japan’s buildup of offensive capabilities as unconstitutional, supporters argue the Izumo is necessary to counterbalance China’s growing naval fleet including its own aircraft carriers. The immense investment Japan has made in the Izumo demonstrates its commitment to defending its interests against potential aggression.

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