The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force has expanded its fleet with the commissioning of the JS Niyodo, the seventh Mogami-class frigate built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. The ceremony, held at Nagasaki, saw the ship formally transferred and assigned to Escort Division 12 based in Hiroshima. The JS Niyodo is named after a river in Shikoku and is notable for being the first Mogami-class vessel equipped with the Mk 41 Vertical Launch System. This technology enhances its strike capability across multiple domains, whether acting alone or supporting larger naval operations.
