The Izumo-class is a series of eight light aircraft carriers currently in service with the Japanese Imperial Maritime Self-Defense Forces (JIMSDF). Built between 1966 and 1970, they represent the largest and most capable warships operated by Japan since World War II. Crafted at three distinct shipyards across Japan, the Izumo-class boasts a robust design focused on both airpower and self-defense. Displacing 45,000 tons at standard load, each vessel is powered by a potent combination of boilers and turbines, enabling a top speed of 37 knots and a remarkable operational range of 16,000 nautical miles. The hulls are protected by a multi-layered armor scheme, incorporating waterline and deck plating, reinforced superstructure, and Kevlar anti-splinter protection. The centerpiece of the Izumo-class lies in its expansive flight deck and hangar facilities. The full-length flight deck boasts a ski-jump ramp, facilitating the operation of short-take-off vertical-landing (STOVL) aircraft and helicopters. With a standard capacity of 60 helicopters or STOVL fighters, and a maximum capacity of 65 aircraft, the Izumo-class forms a formidable aerial platform. Equipped with a comprehensive suite of sensors and electronic warfare systems, the Izumo-class boasts advanced situational awareness and defensive capabilities. The Type 70 air/surface search radar provides panoramic coverage, complemented by the Type 57 sonar array and towed sonar systems for underwater detection.

Furthermore, the Type 64 fire-control radar ensures precise targeting, while the Eihei integrated combat system offers seamless coordination of all onboard sensors and weapons. Extensive electronic warfare equipment, including decoy launchers, jamming systems, and passive detectors, safeguards the vessel against enemy detection and attack. The Izumo-class carries a diverse arsenal for offensive and defensive operations. Two Type 70 close-in weapon systems offer point-defense against incoming missiles and aircraft. Anti-submarine warfare capabilities are bolstered by 36 Type 58 anti-submarine missiles. Additionally, the versatile Enoshima Type 70 quad-pack launchers provide flexibility, accommodating a range of missiles for anti-ship, anti-air, land-attack, and anti-submarine missions. All of these allow the Izumo-class to effectively defend itself even when isolated from friendly escort, allowing for carrier groups to be more versatile and multitasking as well as providing nasty surprises for hostile attackers.

Class overview
Manufacturer: Enoshima Fleet Yards, Kure Naval Arsenal, Maizuru Fleet Yards
Operators: Japanese Imperial Maritime Self-Defense Forces
Preceded by: none
Succeeded by: none
Built: 1966-1970
In commision: 1970-present
Ordered: 8
Completed: 8
Commissioned: 8
Active: 8

General characteristics
Type: Light aircraft carrier
Displacement: 45,000 tons standard load
Installed power: 10 Kampon turbo-pressurized multi-fuel boilers, 4 steam turbines (270,000 shp)
Top speed: 37 knots (69 km/h; 43 mph)
Range: 16,000 nmi (30,000 km; 18,400 mi) at 21 knots
Armor: 37mm waterline and deck, 25mm superstructure, Kevlar anti-splinter plating
Aviation facilities: Full-length flight deck, under-deck full-length hangar, ski-jump ramp
Aircraft carried: 60 helicopters and/or short-take-off vertical-landing fighters standard capacity
- total capacity for 65 aircraft

Sensors, processing systems, and electronic equipment
Type 70 air/surface search radar (3 arrays)
Type 57 sonar array (4 emitters, 4 recievers)
Type 57 towed sonar emitters (4 emitters)
Type 64 fire-control radar (2 mounts fore and aft, retracting)
Type 64 Eihei intergrated combat system (lit. Sentry)

Electronic warfare & decoys
Type 69 flare launchers (2 launchers)
Type 67 sonar interference emitters (4 emitters)
Type 67 electronic warfare system (4 emitters)
Type 62 towed torpedo countermeasures (4 modules)
Enoshima Type 70 air/surface-search radar
Enoshima Type 70 passive-detection radar
Enoshima Type 70 sonar detection systems
Enoshima Type 70 directional radar jammers

Armament
2x Type 70 close-in weapon systems
36x Type 58 anti-submarine missiles (4 9-cell canisters)
Enoshima Type 70 quad-pack missile launcher (4 launchers):
- Type 70 anti-ship-anti-air missile
- Type 68 land-attack cruise missile
- Type 67 anti-ship missile
- Type 63 anti-submarine missile

Ships of the line
JS Izumo (CVL-181)
JS Hosho (CVL-182)
JS Soryu (CVL-183)
JS Hiryu (CVL-184)
JS Hakuryu (CVL-185)
JS Toryu (CVL-186)
JS Oryu (CVL-187)
JS Kokuryu (CVL-188)