Australia and Japan have recently formalised a significant defence partnership by signing contracts to develop three Japanese-designed Mogami-class frigates, marking the first phase of a $10 billion project. The initial frigate is scheduled for delivery in three years, with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries overseeing construction in Japan, while Australia plans to build an additional eight vessels at a shipyard in Western Australia.
The signing ceremony took place on board the JS Kumano, a frigate currently serving in the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force, with both Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles in attendance. Their presence highlighted the occasion’s importance, especially as it coincided with Japan’s participation in Australia’s multinational Exercise Kakadu.
This deal represents a strategic shift for Australia’s naval capabilities, as the Mogami-class frigates will replace the ageing ANZAC-class ships, which are increasingly seen as vulnerable to modern threats such as missile and drone attacks. Marles articulated that this acquisition plan is the fastest in the Royal Australian Navy’s history for a surface combatant, with the first Mogami-class vessel expected in 2029.
Japan’s defence industry is poised for growth due to this arrangement, especially after previously losing a major Australian submarine contract to France in 2016. This collaboration not only strengthens Japan’s defence sector but also enhances Australia’s military capabilities. Koizumi remarked that bringing Japanese vessels into the Australian navy signifies a substantial improvement in bilateral defence cooperation.
A key aspect of the Mogami-class frigates is their reduced crew requirement, allowing operations with just 90 personnel—about half the crew needed for the current ANZAC-class frigates. They will be outfitted with advanced weapons systems, including surface-to-air and anti-shipping missiles and will be compatible with combat helicopters.
Minister Marles welcomed Japan’s recent easing of export restrictions on defence technology, emphasizing the potential benefits for both countries. He noted Japan’s role as an “indispensable partner” in Australia’s evolving defence strategy, which aims to increase the defence budget by $53 billion over the next decade.
This partnership reflects Japan’s broader military buildup and its strategic pivot towards strengthening defence ties with countries beyond its traditional ally, the United States. The collaboration signifies a commitment from both nations to bolster regional security and fosters deeper military ties amid a changing geopolitical landscape.