Australia and Japan have officially entered into a partnership with the signing of contracts for the construction of three Mogami-class frigates, part of a substantial $10 billion fleet set to bolster Australia’s naval capabilities. The initial vessel is expected to be delivered in 2029.
The frigates are designed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, with the first three being built in Japan, while Australia plans to fabricate an additional eight vessels at a shipyard located in Western Australia. This initiative is a significant enhancement to Australia’s naval fleet, as it will replace the ageing ANZAC-class frigates that are no longer suited to modern military demands.
During the signing ceremony held in Melbourne aboard the JS Kumano, a vessel of the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force, both Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles highlighted the importance of this collaborative effort. Marles noted that the agreement signifies a major leap in developing a more capable and larger surface combat fleet for Australia.
This contract follows a competitive bidding process where the Japanese design was chosen over Germany’s Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems MEKO A-200 option, ultimately signalling a pivotal moment for Japan’s evolving defence industry, particularly after missing out on a submarine deal with Australia in 2016.
Marles reflected on how the upcoming vessels will be operated with a reduced crew—90 personnel compared to the current ANZACs’ significantly larger crew sizes. He acknowledged Japan’s efforts to relax export controls on defence technology with trusted partners like Australia, which further solidifies the bilateral defence relationship.
The Mogami-class vessels will come equipped with cutting-edge technology, including surface-to-air and anti-ship missiles, and the ability to operate combat helicopters, enhancing Australia’s defence posture amidst regional security challenges. Koizumi affirmed that introducing these vessels into the Australian Navy represents a significant step towards elevating Japan and Australia’s bilateral defence cooperation.
This collaboration is part of a broader trend as Japan actively strengthens its military capacity and expands defence ties beyond its alliance with the United States, recognizing Australia as a crucial partner. Marles further mentioned an infusion of $53 billion into Australia’s defence budget over the next decade, marking a renewed commitment to national security and regional stability.
As the first Mogami-class frigate gears up for its arrival in a few years, Australia is poised to significantly modernise its naval capabilities, reflecting a strategic alliance that underscores both nations’ commitment to security cooperation in an increasingly complex global landscape.