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Should China be worried about Japan’s maritime force overhaul?

Japan’s structural reform of its maritime force reflects a shift towards quasi-carrier operations and preparations for a potential conflict with Beijing, according to Chinese analysts.
The…

By Samantha Johnson / March 25, 2026

Japan’s structural reform of its maritime force reflects a shift towards quasi-carrier operations and preparations for a potential conflict with Beijing, according to Chinese analysts.

The Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF) on Monday revamped its organisational structure to accelerate decision-making and improve ship operations, according to Kyodo News.

The agency described the move as part of Japan’s efforts to strengthen defence amid China’s growing assertiveness.

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As part of the overhaul, the Fleet Escort Force, created in 1961 and long regarded as the backbone of Japan’s surface fleet, was formally abolished. In its place, the JMSDF established a new Fleet Surface Force to centrally command and control surface vessels.

At the heart of the restructuring is the consolidation of four escort flotillas under the former Fleet Escort Force into three surface warfare groups under the new Fleet Surface Force.

Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force escort ship JS Kurama (left) follows the destroyer JS Yudachi bearing the JMSDF ensign during a fleet review in Sagami Bay, south of Tokyo, on October 14, 2012. Photo: AFP
Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force escort ship JS Kurama (left) follows the destroyer JS Yudachi bearing the JMSDF ensign during a fleet review in Sagami Bay, south of Tokyo, on October 14, 2012. Photo: AFP

Chinese military analyst Fu Qianshao described the reorganisation as more than a name change.

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