Japan to end military operation of Antarctic research vessel in early 2030s

Japan plans to withdraw the Maritime Self-Defense Force (MSDF) from operating its Antarctic research vessel in the early 2030s, transferring responsibility for transporting personnel and supplies to a state-backed marine research agency, sources familiar with the matter told Japan Today. 

The MSDF has operated ships for Japan’s Antarctic programme since 1965, with about 180 personnel currently crewing the icebreaker Shirase. The government cited growing security demands, including increased Chinese military activity, and manpower shortages as reasons for the change. 

Under the plan, operational control will be handed to the Japan Agency for Marine-Earth Science and Technology, while the MSDF will play a limited support role. Before the withdrawal, MSDF deployment is expected to be reduced to around 30 personnel, who will assist with ice navigation and cargo transport near Syowa Station.

The current Shirase is expected to retire in 2034, with a successor vessel to be operated under discussion. Sources noted that “advances in navigation technology have lowered the risks of sailing in ice-covered waters, making it more feasible for a civilian organisation to take over operations,” and that civilian operation could “allow more flexible planning of Antarctic research missions.” Helicopter operations will be handled by the National Institute of Polar Research.

Japan’s Defence Ministry reported that the Self-Defence Forces had about 220,000 personnel at the end of fiscal 2024, or 89.1 per cent of the authorised strength of roughly 247,000, with projections showing a potential decline to 180,000 by fiscal 2035 and 130,000 by 2045.

By Sabina Mammadli