Japanese patrol vessel Asazuki
# Japanese patrol vessel Asazuki

Asazuki (PLH-35) is a Reimei-class patrol vessel currently operated by the Japanese Coast Guard.

## Design

Reimei-class carries two 40 mm autocanon and two JM61 20 mm machine guns, as does the Akitsushima. Gun mounts of 40 mm autocanons are changed to Mk4, which is lighter than the Mk3 mounted on the Akitsushima. Both are capable of being remotely controlled with optical directors.

Aviation facilities are also similar to that of Akitsushima, capable of carrying two EC225LP Super Puma helicopters: however, only one helicopter is normally carried on this vessel.

## Construction and career

Asazuki was laid down on 25 February 2019 and launched on 15 December 2020 by Mitsubishi, Shimonoseki. She was commissioned on 12 November 2021.

