could operate 12 or more STOVL(short take-off and vertical landing aircraft) Lockheed Martin F-35B Lightning II aircraft after modifications.
In 2020, Izumo began the conversion process. Initial modifications include strengthening the heat resistance of the deck and installing power supply equipment to enable the departure and arrival of the F-35B.
On 3 October 2021, two USMC F-35B performed the first vertical landings and horizontal take-offs from JS Izumo, marking 75 years since fixed-wing aircraft operated from a Japanese carrier.
plan (from the end of 2024): second renovation, to change the bow shape to a quadrangle for the safe operation of F-35B and the maintenance of the interior compartments.
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