There were fresh pictures of the Japanese helicopter carriers 24DDH “from”, entered into service the Navy in Japan Self-Defense Forces 2017 year. At the same time attention to itself drew a picture, which shows a large area process opening – outdoor deck "hatch", leading to internal compartments (Commercial) warship. Image, published in Japanese and Chinese blogs, sealed brigade maintenance helicopter carriers. Members wondered, what happens on board helicopter carriers, any work is done on 24DDH “from”?
The probable answer to this question can be as follows: Japanese helicopter carrier still dooboruduyut option to use it on the American fighter F-35B (with short takeoff and vertical landing). Procurement plans of the Japanese Defense Ministry is on the modification of the fifth-generation aircraft following: 42 units. This is in addition to the plans for the purchase of 100 plus F-35A.
Helicopter carrier after some technological change may well turn in an aircraft carrier - is for aircraft with the characteristics of the dynamics of, which has the F-35B.
Alterations can affect the "elevator" structure - lifts, aircraft, which should be "adjusted" by the size of the aircraft. These lifts in the hangars of the Japanese two helicopter carriers.
The press service of the Japanese Navy at the moment works, carried on board 24DDH “from”, no comments. No data and on, whether the ship will maintain its helicopter unit or be completely reformatted into an aircraft carrier for the F-35B?
It is important to note, that immediately after, how 24DDH “from” It became part of the Japanese Navy, the authorities had rejected the possibility of ship devices of this type for the home fighter Lockheed Martin F-35B. times have changed, or assumption of conversion precisely in order to be placed on helicopter carriers F-35B still is not true?
