http://www.janes.com/news/defence/naval/jni/jni071206_1_n.shtml
The first of three improved Oyashio-class attack submarines on order for the Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF) was launched at Mitsubishi Heavy Industries' Kobe shipyard on 5 December.
At 84 m long and 4,200-tons submerged, Soryu is significantly larger than the original 11 Oyashio-class boats (81 m and 3,500 tons) in order to incorporate a Kockums Stirling air independent propulsion (AIP) system.
Components for the AIP, which will enhance the vessel's stealth and special operations capability, were supplied by the Swedish company for assembly in Japan.
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