We are investigating the Sōryū-class diesel-electric attack submarine, the backbone of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s underwater fleet.What is the history of the Japanese submarine development programme?What are the features that make the Sōryū-class, also know as 16SS-class, superior to its many counterparts?Why has the submarine not achieved commercial success yet?What are the capabilities of the Sōryū-class submarines’ the Type 89 and Type 18 torpedoes and the UGM-84 Sub-Harpoon missiles? 00:00 Introduction01:33 Historical background02:57 Programme history04:00 Specifications05:14 Design09:35 Armament10:45 Analysis