Ref.: TAMI-31006
JDS LST-4002 Shimokita
Characteristics
Scale model to scale 1/700 in plastic in order to mount and paint
History
Following the Ohsumi (deployed in 1998) came the LST-4002 Shimokita, which went into service on November, 2000. Adapting stealth technology, Shimokita's bridge area was constructed with flat surfaces.
She boasts an immense upper deck, with an overall length of 160m and total breadth of 25.8m.
The front deck is devoted to vehicle loading space and the rear deck serves as a heliport. The front of her hull is 100m long and combined with her upper deck can transport up to 10 tanks or other large military vehicles.
The rear hull is 60m long and acts as a well-dock housing LCAC (Landing Craft Air Cushions). The Shimokita has a crew of 130, and can transport 330 ground troops.
During the event of a disaster she can accommodate over 1000 civilians.
Like her predecessor, the Ohsumi, the Shimokita type vessel enables the efficient transport of JSDF ground troops, rescue of civilians in the event of a large scale natural disaster, and potentially functions as a supply base for United Nations Peace Keeping Operations.