The Japan Coast Guard has added the fifth Miyako-class patrol vessel, JCG Goto (PL-205), following its delivery by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Maritime Systems at the Tamano shipyard in Okayama Prefecture. This delivery contributes to Japan’s ongoing modernization of its maritime security forces as the nation responds to growing operational demands in nearby seas. After entering service, Goto will be based at the Nagasaki Coast Guard Office under the 7th Regional Headquarters and will conduct missions such as territorial water surveillance, maritime rescue, law enforcement at sea, and protection of marine resources. Mitsubishi’s Tamano yard has already produced three earlier vessels—Miyako (PL-201), Osumi (PL-202), and Amami (PL-204). The fourth vessel, Yaeyama (PL-203), was built by Japan Marine United Corporation in Yokohama. The program is advancing with two additional vessels, Daito (PL-206) and Hiroshima (PL-207), launched earlier this year and now undergoing outfitting. Their delivery is planned for 2025 and 2026. Japan’s goal is to field nine Miyako-class patrol vessels by 2028, backed by the 2024 supplementary coast guard budget. Each Miyako-class ship is 117 meters long, displaces 3,500 tons, and carries two 40 mm machine guns. The ships use four Yanmar 8EY33W diesel engines generating 24,000 horsepower, allowing speeds above 25 knots. Although official range figures have not been released, the vessels are expected to exceed the endurance of the Shikishima class, which can cover around 20,000 nautical miles.
