New model in 2015! The Shirase is operated by the JMDF but it's primary task is to support Antarctic research based around the Showa base. As these vessels go, it is a large ship of 20,000 tons and is capable of a speed of 3kt in 1.5m ice. In February 2014, she went aground off the unmanned Molodyozhnaya base and the outer hull was penetrated but the ship was not endangered.