All of Japan's submarines are considered very modern and capable. This official JMSDF image shows two Oyashio Class boats. These have received upgrades to close the gap with the latest Sōryū Class. JMSDF
Forbes: Japanese Submarines To Counter Chinese Navy Incursions
With China appearing to flex its muscles in almost all of its territorial disputes, a new underwater dimension may emerge. Chinese submarines could be on a collision course with the Japanese Navy. Known as the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF), they possess one of the most potent anti-submarine capabilities of any Navy. In particular Japanese submarine technology is highly regarded. But there seems to be acceptance that they will have to beef up to meet the emerging threat from China. A newly published white paper hints at ways the JMSDF is responding.
The threat of Chinese submarine incursions is seen as very real. Last month, to track a submerged submarine near its waters, the JMSDF scrambled one of its helicopter carriers, two destroyers and several maritime patrol aircraft. Although Japan has not declared the nationality of the submarine, it is widely believed to have been Chinese.
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WNU Editor: Japan is also beefing up its surface fleet .... Japan has started to convert its first aircraft carrier in 75 years (Business Insider/We Are The Mighty).