JDS Tachikaze (DDG-168) is the lead ship of the Tachikaze-class destroyer built for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).

No helicopter facilities are provided, and the ASW armament is confined to ASROC missiles and Mk 46 torpedoes.

In order to save on construction costs the class adopted the propulsion plant and machinery of the Haruna-class destroyers.

[citation needed] In 1998, JDS Tachikaze was converted to be the flagship of the Fleet Escort Force.

[citation needed] Tachikaze became a target ship for multiple ships and aircraft and was sunk during the live ammunition training conducted in the southeastern waters of Hachijojima from 5 to 8 June 2009.