BLURB: Both the countries will co-produce advanced Mogami-class frigates, marking a significant step in bilateral military cooperation
Melbourne
Australia and Japan have signed a major defence agreement worth USD 6.5 billion to supply and co-produce advanced Mogami-class frigates, marking a significant step in bilateral military cooperation.
Under the deal, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries will construct the first three of ten planned frigates in Japan, with delivery expected to begin within three years. The remaining eight vessels will be built in Western Australia, strengthening Australia’s domestic shipbuilding capacity.
The signing ceremony was attended by Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles aboard the JS Kumano, a Mogami-class frigate of the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force, docked near Melbourne.
Australia selected the Japanese bid over competing European designs, citing faster delivery timelines, reduced crew requirements, and advanced capabilities suited for modern maritime threats. The new fleet will replace Australia’s ageing ANZAC-class frigates, which are considered less effective against emerging missile and drone technologies.
Officials said the first frigate is expected to enter service by 2029, with the programme representing the fastest introduction of surface combat vessels into the Royal Australian Navy in its history.
The Mogami-class ships are designed for multi-role operations, including air defence, anti-ship warfare, and helicopter deployment, while requiring significantly fewer personnel to operate compared to older platforms.
Japan described the agreement as a major expansion of defence cooperation with Australia, which it now views as a key strategic partner alongside its alliance with the United States.
The deal also reflects Japan’s growing push to expand defence exports and deepen security ties in the Indo-Pacific region amid rising geopolitical tensions.
