Japan just unleashed one of its largest warships ever. Dubbed Izumo, it's a flat top destroyer that Japan says isn't an aircraft carrier. But look at it. One of its main duties is to "carry aircraft." You sly devils you, Japan.
Izumo has been under construction for the last four years, and it was designed to be used in national defense. The 250 meter flat deck will be used to carry 14 helicopters. It is not technically an aircraft carrier. That is because an aircraft carrier could be seen as a military vehicle meant for offensive, not defensive, campaigns.
Japan is constitutionally not allowed to maintain an offensive military force, something that happened after World War II.
This ship comes on the heels of Hyuga, another, similar ship which was launched in 2011.
Izumo isn't quite long enough for regular take-off and landing, nor does it have any of the catches or catapults to send out a fighter. However, it could be able to accommodate vertical take-off and landing crafts in the future.
Japan says they have no plans to use it like an aircraft carrier.
(via Gizmodo Espanol!)