Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Maritime Systems has handed over the JCG Goto (PL-205), the fifth Miyako-class large patrol vessel, to the Japan Coast Guard during a ceremony at its Tamano shipyard in Okayama Prefecture. The delivery marks another major step in Japan’s effort to expand its maritime patrol capacity amid rising regional challenges. After commissioning, Goto will be assigned to the Nagasaki Coast Guard Office under the 7th Regional Coast Guard Headquarters, where it will undertake missions including territorial protection, search and rescue, maritime law enforcement, maintaining safety at sea, and the safeguarding of marine resources. The Goto follows earlier vessels delivered by Mitsubishi, including Miyako (PL-201), Osumi (PL-202), and Amami (PL-204). The fourth vessel, Yaeyama (PL-203), was built by Japan Marine United Corporation at its Isogo shipyard in Yokohama. Mitsubishi has also launched two additional Miyako-class ships—Daito (PL-206) and Hiroshima (PL-207)—which are currently being outfitted and will be delivered in late 2025 and 2026. Japan plans to deploy nine Miyako-class vessels by 2028 under the 2024 supplementary coast guard budget. The Miyako class measures 117 meters, carries 3,500 tons, and mounts two 40 mm machine guns. Powered by four Yanmar 8EY33W diesel engines generating 24,000 horsepower, the ships can exceed 25 knots. Although Japan has not released official range data, the Miyako class is expected to exceed the endurance of the Shikishima class, which has a range of around 20,000 nautical miles.
