Also Known As:
Asashio (experimental ship), SS 583
Origin:Japan
Description:
The Japan Marine Self Defense Force (JMSDF) Harushio-class submarines have been designed to perform anti-submarine (ASW) and anti-surface warfare (ASuW) missions. The JMSDF procured seven Harushio-class boats in the 1990s. The last ship, JS Asashio, was fitted with an experimental air-independent propulsion system and was commissioned in 1997. Harushio-class ships and Asashio along with Oyashio-class form the JMSDF submarine fleet.
The diesel-powered Harushio-class boats can achieve a top speed of 20 knots while submerged and displacing 2,450t. The diesel engine develops up to 7,200-shp of power. They can be equipped with 20 Type 89 torpedoes as well as Harpoon anti-ship missiles and mines (40). These ships are fitted with six 533mm torpedo tubes. JS Asashio is larger and heavier than its predecessors with a submerged displacement of 3,200t and approx. 86 meters in length.
Specifications Accommodation: Crew 75
Japan / 7 
Asashio was equipped with an experimental Air Indepent Propulsion (AIP) system and JSDMF re-named 3601 Asashio