Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Maritime Systems, part of the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Group, has launched a new large patrol vessel for the Japan Coast Guard. The vessel, named Suruga, was launched during a naming and launching ceremony held at the company’s Tamano facility in Okayama on February 18, 2026.
The launch represents another addition to Japan’s growing fleet of large patrol vessels and highlights Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ continued role in supporting the country’s maritime capabilities.
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What Is the Suruga Patrol Vessel?
The Suruga is a 3,500-ton-class patrol vessel designed for the Japan Coast Guard.
According to Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, the vessel has:
- An overall length of approximately 120 metres
- A beam of approximately 14 metres
- Gross tonnage of approximately 3,500 tonnes
- Equipment for hull, engine, electrical and other operational systems
Following its launch, the vessel will undergo further outfitting before being delivered to the Japan Coast Guard during fiscal 2026.
Built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Maritime Systems
The vessel is being constructed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Maritime Systems, which operates within the Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Group.
The company develops and builds ships for government and maritime applications. Its portfolio includes patrol vessels for the Japan Coast Guard.
The Suruga is the seventh 3,500-ton-class patrol vessel of this type to be constructed at the Tamano facility, following earlier vessels in the series.
Strengthening Japan Coast Guard Capabilities
Large patrol vessels play an important role in Japan’s maritime operations.
The Japan Coast Guard carries out missions that include maritime security, search and rescue, disaster response, environmental protection and other activities at sea.
MHI says its maritime shipbuilding capabilities contribute to strengthening Japan’s coast guard capabilities through the construction of vessels designed for these requirements.
A Growing Fleet of Large Patrol Ships
The Suruga is part of a broader programme involving 3,500-ton-class patrol vessels.
Earlier vessels of the same type have already been delivered to the Japan Coast Guard. The continued construction of these ships reflects Japan’s investment in modernising its maritime patrol capabilities.
The new vessel will undergo additional work after launch before entering service.
From Launch to Delivery
Launching a ship is an important milestone, but the Suruga is not yet ready for operational service.
Following the ceremony, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Maritime Systems will continue work involving the vessel’s:
- Hull
- Engines
- Electrical systems
- Operational equipment
- Other outfitting requirements
The vessel is scheduled for delivery to the Japan Coast Guard during fiscal 2026.
Why This Matters
1. Strengthening Maritime Security
The new patrol vessel will add another modern platform to the Japan Coast Guard fleet.
2. Supporting Search and Rescue
Large patrol vessels can support maritime safety and emergency-response missions over Japan’s extensive surrounding waters.
3. Advancing Japanese Shipbuilding
The project demonstrates Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Maritime Systems’ continuing expertise in designing and constructing specialised government vessels.
4. Expanding Japan’s Coast Guard Fleet
The Suruga adds to a growing series of large patrol vessels being constructed for the Japan Coast Guard.
Final Word
The launch of the Suruga marks another milestone in Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ long-standing partnership with the Japan Coast Guard. The 3,500-ton-class patrol vessel will now undergo further outfitting before its planned delivery during fiscal 2026.
As Japan continues to strengthen maritime safety, security and disaster-response capabilities, vessels such as the Suruga are expected to play an important role in supporting the Japan Coast Guard’s missions at sea.
