Inside the Izumo: A Look at the Lives of Japan's Largest Destroyer Crew

Spanning 248 meters in length and 38 meters in width, the Izumo is the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's (JMSDF) largest destroyer. With a crew of around 450, its members carry out their duties on missions that can last several months.

What is life like for those entrusted with the high-pressure task of national defense aboard the ship? In June, this reporter embarked on a seven-day voyage with the Izumo's crew from Guam to the Port of Yokosuka. My aim was to get a glimpse into their daily lives and uncover the human side of these dedicated personnel.

Practicing Iaido in the Hangar

The helicopter hangar located below the deck provides a valuable, spacious area for the crew. Throughout the day, many crew members would work up a sweat running or exercising beside the helicopters.

Among them, Lieutenant Commander Takuya Tomimura (49) stood out, dressed in a hakama. With swift, precise movements, he repeatedly drew and swung his sword. He holds a second-dan rank in iaido. "The bridge, where I'm stationed, is a place where critical decisions are constantly made, so the atmosphere is always tense," Tomimura explained. "Practicing iaido here helps me clear my mind and recharge."

Following in Her Father's Footsteps

On the deck, I was struck by Leading Seaman Yuri Tsunashima (22). Now in her fourth year of service, she skillfully directed the takeoffs and landings of patrol helicopters using semaphore signals.

Amid the deafening roar of helicopter rotors and intense wind pressure, she adeptly waves green and red flags in all directions. Her every movement communicates a different signal to the pilots. Many of the crew consider her expertise among the finest on the ship.

CAPTION: Leading Seaman Yuri Tsunashima enjoying ice cream with her shipmates in the mess hall at night, Pacific Ocean (©Sankei by Kanata Iwasaki)

"Of course, I trust the pilots, but I always meticulously guide them to ensure they arrive safely," she related.

One of Tsunashima's favorite pastimes during voyages is sharing ice cream with her shipmates in the mess hall at night.

Taking after her father, a former Self-Defense Forces (SDF) member, she enlisted in the MSDF and now works as a signalperson. She also handles torpedoes and machine guns in the hangar. "I find this job fulfilling because I get to interact with people of all ages. Plus, I have the opportunity to travel to various countries," she smiled.

Staying Connected with Family

Despite the size of the ship, personal space is typically limited to just a bunk bed and a locker the size of a school bag. On the open sea, there is no phone signal, and internet access is unavailable. This makes staying in touch with family back on land difficult. Within this confined space, the crew's personal lives are tightly compacted.

Kenta Fuchigami (27) is a third-class petty officer responsible for inspecting the ship's diesel engines. On his locker is a photo of his one-and-a-half-year-old son, Haruhi. He hasn't seen him for about a month due to the voyage. "I feel bad for leaving everything at home to my wife," he said. "However, I'm grateful for her support, as it allows me to concentrate fully on my duties."

"My duty is national defense, but I believe our country thrives because each person fulfills their own responsibilities," Fuchigami stated. "As an SDF member, I'm committed to ensuring citizens and their families can live with peace of mind," he emphasized.

The Izumo glides steadily through the cobalt-blue sea. It barely sways as it carries SDF personnel on their crucial missions to safeguard the nation's security and peace.

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(Read the article in Japanese.)

Author: Kanata Iwasaki