Japan launches seventh Taigei-class submarine

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries launched Shogei, the seventh Taigei-class submarine for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, at its Kobe shipyard on October 8, 2026. The diesel-electric boat has a standard displacement of approximately 3,000 tonnes, an 84-metre hull and a 9.1-metre beam, with accommodation for around 70 personnel. Its configuration includes reduced radiated noise, improved sonar and six 533 mm bow torpedo tubes supporting heavyweight torpedoes and Harpoon anti-ship missiles. The launch begins the submarine's outfitting and systems-integration phase before sea trials and commissioning, as the Taigei programme progressively replaces Japan's earlier Sōryū-class boats.