Railgun: JMSDF releases clear images for the first time!
・The new railgun weapon installed on the test ship Asuka
・To be open to the public during Golden Week in May
Summary from the article published in Norimono News.
First appearance of the railgun: JMSDF
On April 18, 2025, JMSDF released images of the railgun on Official X.
The new weapon under development will be installed on the test ship Asuka and open to the public at Yokosuka Port.
Commander of the Self-Defense Fleet: Rear Admiral Katsushi Omachi
On April 9, the Commander of the Self-Defense Fleet boarded the Asuka.
He said he had personally confirmed the latest status of the railgun in advance.
JMSDF test ship: Asuka:
Asuka is a JMSDF development ship and the only test ship in Japan.
1. Its sharp bow and imposing bridge are its exterior features.
2. Currently deployed at Yokosuka Base (Yokosuka City, Kanagawa Prefecture).
Popular sightseeing spot: “YOKOSUKA Naval Port Tour”:
The “YOKOSUKA Naval Port Tour” allows you to see the Maritime Self-Defense Force and U.S. Navy ships at Yokosuka Base up close.
The railgun installed on the “Asuka” was spotted by this passenger this month.
Railgun image released:
The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force released a photo of the railgun, calling on people to “go see the railgun this Golden Week.”
Railgun development status:
1. It fires bullets continuously using electrical energy.
2. At-sea firing tests have already been conducted in 2023.
Intended use after development is complete:
3. Against “hypersonic guided missiles” and other weapons that are difficult to deal with with existing weapons.
4. It will be used for air defense and as a means of striking ships and ground targets that are difficult to evade.
Collaboration with the French and German Ministries of Defense:
The Ministry of Defense has decided to cooperate with the French and German Ministries of Defense, and the Franco-German Saint-Louis Institute.
1. In April 2025, the “Implementation Guidelines for Cooperation in Railgun Technology” were signed.
2. Of course, the possibility of collaboration with other countries is also being considered.
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