BLUF
This article argues Japan’s industrial policy balances cost, readiness, and wartime surge capacity to maximise capability.Summary
- Consistent production, early decommissioning, strategic reserve management utilised.
- One new submarine delivered every two years since 1965.
- About 18 years’ service before decommissioning or training reassignment.
- New technology validated in existing classes before fleet-wide implementation.
- Decommissioned submarines join training or reserve fleets for readiness.