RIN Gekiryuu-Class (SSK-814)

Rapid Response Helicopter Carrier

Overview:

The SSK-814, more commonly referred to as Gekiryuu, is a helicopter carrier that has become a vital backbone of maritime operations. Renowned for its swift and versatile mobility, the vessel has come to symbolise the rapid response doctrine of the Navy.

Operated by the elite Retsugun unit, Gekiryuu is assigned to two defensive fleets and is deployed in specific strategic situations. These include humanitarian relief in regions only accessible by air, where standard helicopters are unable to cover the necessary distance unaided — amongst other rapid deployment scenarios.

Development History:

In August 1991, the Ministry of Defence found itself under considerable pressure to procure a modern helicopter carrier. While at first the need seemed minor, it was, in fact, crucial for the operational capability of the Otsumokuri Navy.

At that time, all helicopter carriers in service were either antiquated vessels retrofitted to reduce cost or ageing fixed-wing carriers, the newest of which had already served for 36 years.

In June 1992, blueprints were finalised for a new class of vessel, based on a modified cruiser hull — broader and shorter in proportion, with a raised flight deck several metres higher than standard, allowing for enhanced aircraft capacity. The forward deck was given an upward curve to improve vertical lift performance, should STOVL or VTOL aircraft be embarked.

Specifications:

• Displacement: Approx. 60,000 tonnes standard; up to 85,000 tonnes fully loaded with air units.

• Maximum speed: 38 knots; reverse speed approx. 19 knots.

• Maneuverability: Highly agile for a ship of its class, capable of docking with minimal tug assistance.

• Aircraft capacity: Can accommodate 38 aircraft or helicopters internally, with a further 8 helicopters stationed on deck.

Armament:

The vessel is armed with 80 Surface-to-Air Missiles (SAMs) and 27 Surface-to-Surface Missiles (SSMs). All 107 missiles share the same core design; the 27 SSMs are modified derivatives repurposed for anti-surface warfare.

(And yes — if that seems like an excessive arsenal, so be it. You needn’t concern yourself with your phone’s limits. I’m suffering just the same here.)

Historical Deployment:

On 17 December 1995, one day following a surprise enemy assault on a key naval port, Gekiryuu was dispatched as a fast-response asset of the 7th Fleet. Its mission: to reclaim the port and pursue several enemy vessels retreating under heavy damage sustained in the prior engagement.

A total of seven aircraft were launched from the carrier, delivering precision strikes with high-yield ordnance and firing anti-ship missiles. Additionally, ASW helicopters were deployed in search-and-destroy operations — though, as it turned out, there were no submarines lurking beneath. No catfish either, one might say.

You can land and take off the plane on it

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