New helicopter destroyer to widen MSDF range

The Maritime Self-Defense Force plans to build a helicopter destroyer--the largest ship in the fleet--to counter China's naval buildup and improve responses for contingencies.

The planned helicopter destroyer will have a length of 248 meters, a displacement of 19,500 tons and a capability to transport up to 14 helicopters, 4,000 people and 50 trucks. It would also be able to refuel other ships.

To the untrained eye, the helicopter destroyer looks like an aircraft carrier, which has raised questions that it could violate Japan's pacifist Constitution.

Read more