Japan considers transferring destroyers to Chile

Japan is evaluating the potential transfer of destroyers to Chile to help maintain the Chilean Navy’s surface combat force at its required minimum of eight operational vessels. The proposed vessels include ships from the Murasame, Takanami, or Akizuki classes.

This acquisition would serve as a strategic transition while Chile implements its Naval Construction Policy 2025–2040. That policy aims to begin constructing a series of common frigates at the Talcahuano shipyard starting in the 2030s. However, detailed engineering, industrial partnerships, and production timelines for the domestic program have not yet been finalized.

Currently, the Chilean Navy operates eight primary combatants, including Type 22 and Type 23 frigates, Class M, and Adelaide class vessels. The retirement of existing ships without immediate replacements would drop the fleet below legal minimums. While Japan has 18 candidate destroyers available across these three classes, no official decision has been made regarding the specific class, quantity, price, or delivery schedule.