Mashū class
Overview
Mashū class
Japanese Mashū class replenishment ship seen at sea in 2021.
Source: www.mod.go.jp -
© CC BY 4.0
Japan - Universal Shipbuilding Corporation, Maizuru
Description
Introduction
The Mashu class is a modern era replenishment ship of Japanese origin. Two vessels have been produced. These large vessels are unique in having a rather high speed due to their gas turbine propulsion.
Design
The Mashu class is a further development Towada class. Displacement has nearly doubled, yet the maximum speed is also increased by 2 knots. This is achieved by the unique use of two Rolls Royce Spey gas turbine engines. Although gas turbines are commonly found on frigates and destroyers, the vast majority of replenishment vessels use diesel engines. There are two shafts with five-blade propellers. Replenishment can be carried out on the move with vessels being serviced on both sides. The large superstructure at the rear houses the crew. A helicopter pad and hangar are located at the rear.
Medical facilities
The superstructure also houses a medical facility with 46 beds. This can be converted to intensive care unit if appropriate specialized crew and equipment is taken aboard. The medical facility is for use in the disaster relief role and for taking on wounded crew from the vessels it supports in fleet operations.
Firepower
Armament as designed consists of two 20mm Phalanx close-in weapon systems. One at the bow and one at the rear of the superstructure. These are intended for self-defense. Although listed, these Phalanx seem not to be fitted in photographs. In addition there are several pintle mounts for 12.7mm M2HB heavy machine guns.
Cargo capacity
Replenishment at sea can be carried out for fuel and dry cargo. Gas turbines power the electrical pumps. Various elevators and electric forklifts are used to move dry cargo. Vertical replenishment using helicopters can also be carried out via the helicopter deck at the rear. The facilities even support the use of the MH-53 helicopter, the largest in Japanese maritime service.
Mobility
Maximum speed of the Mashu class is 24 knots. Cruising range is 9.500 nm at 20 knots.
Users
Both Mashu class were commissioned by the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force. Each vessels supports a different fleet. As such their homeports are Maizuru and Sasebo.
Media
Mashū class
Japanese Mashū class replenishment ship seen at sea in 2021.
Source: www.mod.go.jp
Copyright: CC BY 4.0
Mashū class
Japanese Mashū class replenishment ship seen in Maizuru port in 2021.
Source: Sengoku2501
Copyright: CC BY-SA 4.0
Mashū class
Aerial view of Japanese Mashū class replenishment ship while replenishing an Osumi class landing platform dock.
Source: www.mod.go.jp
Copyright: CC BY 4.0
Mashū class
Rear view of a Japanese Mashū class replenishment ship while replenishing an American Ticonderoga class cruiser in 2006.
Source: US Navy
Copyright: Public domain
Mashū class
Japanese Mashū class replenishment ship seen in port in 2019.
Source: Hunini
Copyright: CC BY-SA 4.0
Mashū class
Japanese Mashū class replenishment ship seen in port in 2019.
Source: Hunini
Copyright: CC BY-SA 4.0
Mashū class
Japanese Mashū class replenishment ship seen at sea.
Source: www.mod.go.jp
Copyright: CC BY 4.0
Mashū class
Japanese Mashū class replenishment ship seen at sea when maneuvering to start replenishment activities in 2017.
Source: www.mod.go.jp
Copyright: CC BY 4.0
Mashū class
Japanese supply ship JDS Mashu (AOE-425) pulls along side the amphibious assault ship USS Iwo Jima (LHD-7) for a replenishment at sea (RAS) in 2006.
Source: US Navy
Copyright: Public domain
Details
Subcomponents
20mm Mk 15 Phalanx
Fitted for, but not with, two 20mm Mk 15 Phalanx close-in weapon systems.
Browning M2HB
Several 12.7mm M2HB heavy machine guns can be fitted for self-defense at short range.
Related articles
Takanami class
The Mashu class shares the Rolls Royce SM1C gas turbine propulsion with the Takanami class destroyer.