JS Raigei

Raigei is a diesel-electric submarine of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force, and the fourth boat of the. Her name has not been used by the Imperial Japanese Navy, making Raigei the first naval vessel to be named in this manner. Like her older sister ships, Raigei will be fitted with dedicated living quarters for up to six female crew members from the time of commissioning. She is also the first boat to be fitted with the Kawasaki 12V 25/31 diesel engine.

History

Raigei was laid down on 26 March 2021 at the Kawasaki Heavy Industries Kobe Shipyard as the fourth 3,000-ton submarine planned for the JMSDF's Mid-Term Defense Program. She was christened and launched at the same shipyard on 17 October 2023. After being fitted out and undergoing various sea trials, Raigei was commissioned on 6 March 2025, being deployed to the 1st Submarine Group in Kure.