The Japan Coast Guard has taken delivery of JCG Goto (PL-205), the fifth vessel in the Miyako-class patrol ship series, following its handover by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Maritime Systems in Tamano, Okayama Prefecture. The new vessel reinforces Japan’s maritime enforcement capabilities and supports its broader strategy to enhance security in surrounding waters. After commissioning, Goto will join the Nagasaki Coast Guard Office under the 7th Regional Headquarters and will take on missions including territorial surveillance, maritime rescue, public order support, and marine resource protection. Mitsubishi’s Tamano shipyard has already completed three ships in the class—Miyako (PL-201), Osumi (PL-202), and Amami (PL-204). The fourth vessel, Yaeyama (PL-203), was constructed by Japan Marine United Corporation at its Isogo facility in Yokohama. Mitsubishi is also progressing with two more ships, Daito (PL-206) and Hiroshima (PL-207), both launched earlier this year and currently undergoing outfitting. These ships will be delivered in 2025 and 2026. Under a budget released in 2024, Japan plans to field nine Miyako-class vessels by 2028. Each Miyako-class platform is 117 meters long, displaces 3,500 tons, and carries two 40 mm machine guns. Propulsion is provided by four Yanmar 8EY33W diesel engines producing 24,000 horsepower, allowing speeds over 25 knots. Although Japan has not revealed endurance numbers, analysts expect these ships to surpass the earlier Shikishima-class fleet, which covers about 20,000 nautical miles.
