Japan's Coast Guard acquires next-generation patrol vessel

Japan's Coast Guard (JCG) on Thursday unveiled a new, next-generation patrol ship that will be deployed in anti-piracy, counter-terrorism and regular domestic duties. According to the Japan Coast Guard Commandant Yuji Sato, the 150-meter long, 6,500-ton vessel will play a key role in Japan's ongoing patrol operations and will be provisionally based at the Yokohama Coast Guard Office near Tokyo. The vessel, named Akitsushima, is one of the largest of its kind in the world and is equipped with next-generation technology and equipment. It's capable of carrying helicopters and has 40-mm cannons mounted, officials from JCG said. The ship has a long-range cruising capacity, making it a valuable asset for the Coast Guard. It can make voyages from Japan to Europe, for example, without the need to refuel.