An entirely new class of vessel has entered service in the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force. Politically controversial, Osumi looks like a small Wasp or Invincible, but is described by the Japanese as an "amphibious transport." Japan is in the uncomfortable position of being an island nation with a need for aviation ships for self-defense. Unfortunately, she also has neighbors with long memories. Osumi LPD Displacement: 14700 std In Class: 1 Acoustic Counterm: None In Service: 1998 Electronic Counterm: None ESM: None Propulsion: Diesel Crew: 131+330 Size Class: Medium Signature: Med/Noisy Weapons: ROF F/A(R)2 Mk15 Phalanx Block 1 w/7 bursts C/USA 2 LCAC -Sensors: OPS-14C, OPS-20, OPS-28 J Remarks: LST 4001. Amphibious ship, special damage modifier of 0.75. Can carry 1400 tons of cargo or 10 Type 90 battle tanks and 3330 troops. Large helo pad aft, treat as aviation ship for critical hit purposes. No hangar. Large area forward is for vehicle park. Spots aft for 2 large helicopters (CH-47) to take off or land at once. Damage and Speed Breakdown: Dam Pts: 0 70 139 209 250 278 Surf Speed: 22 17 11 6 0 Sinks BT Back to The Naval Sitrep #14 Table of Contents Back to Naval Sitrep List of Issues Back to MagWeb Master Magazine List © Copyright 1998 by Larry Bond and Clash of Arms. This article appears in MagWeb (Magazine Web) on the Internet World Wide Web. Other military history articles and gaming articles are available at http://www.magweb.com