At his Yokosuka base visit, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba inspected the Maritime Self‑Defense Force’s Kaga. In his speech, he stressed the de facto carrier nature of the vessel. This move, he said, marked a bold step for Japan’s naval capabilities.
He began with a tour of the hangar. Staff then explained the SH‑60K helicopter setup. Afterward, he boarded a British Royal Navy carrier docked at the same base. These visits underscored deepening cooperation with the United Kingdom.
Furthermore, Ishiba called for stronger deterrence to safeguard Japan’s sovereignty. Regional threats, he noted, continue to rise. In June, two Chinese carriers sailed close to Japanese waters. Consequently, he argued that Japan must bolster its defense on its own terms.
Earlier efforts were also part of the message. Back in May, he visited the Maizuru base in Kyoto. There, he inspected MSDF vessels and discussed maritime readiness. Since then, the government has expanded its strategy with a sharp focus on the Kaga’s transformation.
Now operating as a de facto carrier, the Kaga plays a central role in maritime defense. Adapting to shifting security demands remains a key priority, Ishiba emphasized. He also praised the British ship’s port call as a sign of shared resolve. This gesture, in his view, strengthens bilateral ties and builds momentum for further cooperation.
Upgrades to the Kaga were another highlight of his remarks. These improvements aim to better protect key sea lanes. Ishiba also pointed to steady investment in defense infrastructure as essential for future readiness.
Addressing regional tensions, he named both Russia and North Korea as ongoing threats. To counter them, Japan must remain vigilant and continue building resilience. Through these visits, Ishiba projected firm leadership on maritime issues. The de facto carrier concept clearly signals a strategic shift. It also calls for closer alignment with trusted allies.
In the end, the visit marked more than just inspection. It highlighted Japan’s pivot toward flexible naval strategy. Equally, it reflected stronger ties with the United Kingdom. Altogether, the trip showed how Japan responds to regional challenges with renewed resolve. as a powerful sign. It shows Japan’s shift toward flexible naval options. Just as important, it marks stronger ties with the United Kingdom. In sum, the visit shows how Japan adapts to regional challenges using updated naval strategy.
