Japanese navy boosts overseas force projection capability with second big helicopter carrier

Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force's (JMSDF) latest Izumo-class helicopter carrier DDH-184 Kaga is pictured before a handover ceremony for the JMSDF by Japan Marine United Corporation in Yokohama, Japan, March 22, 2017. REUTERS/Toru Hanai

YOKOHAMA (Reuters) - Japan's second big helicopter carrier, the Kaga, entered service on Wednesday, giving the nation's military greater ability to deploy beyond its shores as it pushes back against China's growing influence in Asia.

Accompanied by a military band, Maritime Self Defence Force commanders took possession of the 248 metre (813.65 ft) long vessel at the Japan Marine United <5411.T> <7013.T> shipyard in Yokohama near Tokyo, where it was docked next to its sister ship the Izumo.