Japanese Destroyer Tachikaze Country: Japan Type: Destroyer Service: 1976 - 2008 Ships in class: 3

The Tachikaze class destroyers were in service with the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF). The destroyers of this class have had successive improvements after their completion, especially to their communication and tactical control systems. Tachikaze class destroyers are primarily air defense ships. The Tachikaze class was the first of the ships in service with the JMSDF that utilised computers widely. The Tachikaze class uses the OYQ-4 tactical control system, an improved version of the original OYQ-1b type. The weapon systems mounted on the Tachikaze include the surface-to-air missiles, anti-submarine rockets, the anti-ship missiles, two Phalanx CIWS mounts, torpedo mounts in a triple tube configuration and two 5 inch rapid fire guns. A total of three Tachikaze class destroyers were built.

In 1998, DDG-168 Tachikaze was converted to the flagship of Fleet Escort Force. The aft 5 inch gun was replaced with a commander area. Tachikaze was decommissioned in 2007. The entire class is being decommissioned from 2007 onwards.