Asia-Pacific

Japan to add 6 units to submarine fleet

(Xinhua)
Updated: 2010-10-21 16:48

TOKYO - The Japanese Defense Ministry has decided to expand the Maritime Self-Defense Force's (MSDF) submarines from the current 16 units to 22, Kyodo News reported Thursday, citing defense ministry and MSDF officials.

The plan, scheduled to be compiled in December, is part of Japan's basic defense program for fiscal 2011 to 2015 and aims to reinforce its vigilance capacity in nearby waters, said the report.

Once implemented, it will enable Japan to possess more than 20 submarines for the first time since the government adopted its first defense program in 1976.