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| Izumo shortly after its Construction & Launch (File Photo) |
Japan's new helicopter destroyer was named Izumo, a term which, according to Rear Admiral Li Jie of the PLA Navy, symbolizes the revivial of Japanese militarism. He explained this sentiment to Chinese nationalist tabloid, the Global Times, during an interview on Mar. 26.
Li said that Izumo is very likely to be used in operations against Chinese submarines. At the same time, it can be used to carry out amphibious warfare over the disputed Diaoyutai islands. The vessel can also protect Japanese communication lines and transport lanes in the South China Sea. He said that a naval conflict between China and Japan at open sea may happen in near future thanks to the new craft's commissioning.
Read the full story at Want China Times