Sakura-class offshore patrol vessel
Country of origin
Japan
Japan
The Sakura-class patrol ships consist of 12 OPV-type patrol vessels planned to be operated by the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).
Amidst the rising tensions over the Senkaku Islands and to replace older vessels such as the Hayabusa-class patrol boats, in 2022, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force launched the Next-Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) program. Construction of the Sakura-class began as part of the program in 2023, and as of March 2026, the first four ships have been launched.
Amidst the rising tensions over the Senkaku Islands and to replace older vessels such as the Hayabusa-class patrol boats, in 2022, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force launched the Next-Generation Offshore Patrol Vessel (OPV) program. Construction of the Sakura-class began as part of the program in 2023, and as of March 2026, the first four ships have been launched.
