With state-of-the-art equipment, the Akizuki-class is said to be the most modern destroyer class of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force today. The Akizuki class was built between 2009 and 2012, consisting of four ships: Akizuki, Teruzuki, Suzutsuki, and Fuyuzuki. The class was designed to escort the Hyūga-class and Izumo-class helicopter destroyers, and to protect other Aegis-capable warships such as the Kongō-class and Atago-class.