The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) has revealed that its fourth Mogami-class frigate Mikuma was launched on 10 December at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ Nagasaki Shipyard & Machinery Works .
As informed, the JMSDF has also held the naming ceremony for the ship, which now bears the name like the Mikuma River at Oita prefecture, Kyusyu.
10 DEC, the naming and launch ceremony was held at Nagasaki Works, MHI. The newest FFM was named "MIKUMA", the 4th MOGAMI class. Her name comes from "Mikuma River" at Oita prefecture, Kyusyu. #debut #River #launch #FFM pic.twitter.com/RXQgzszHCg
Powered by a combined diesel and gas propulsion system with two MAN 12V28/33D STC diesel engines and one Rolls-Royce MT30 gas turbine, the Mogami-class vessels are expected to be capable of attaining a top speed of at least 30 knots.
Armament on the frigates is expected to include the navalised version of the Type-03 medium-range, surface-to-air missile, a 5-inch (127 mm)/62-calibre gun, canister-launched anti-ship missiles, and a SeaRAM close-in weapon system that is expected to use upgraded RIM-116C Rolling Airframe Missiles.
The frigates, which measure 133 meters in length, will also feature a vertical launch system.
The first vessel in the class was launched in March this year by the shipbuilder Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. The contract was signed for 22 Mogami-class multirole frigates .