Australia has chosen Japan’s upgraded Mogami-class frigate for its $10 billion SEA 3000 General Purpose Frigate programme after a fierce competition with Germany. The deal boosts RAN’s capabilities and deepens Australia‑Japan defence ties.
A New Chapter: Japan Exports Warships for First Time Since WWII
In a groundbreaking shift, the Albanese Government has signed a $10 billion AUD ($6.5 billion USD) contract with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) for up to 11 upgraded Mogami-class frigates, marking Japan’s first major warship export in decades. This decision positions Australia as Japan’s inaugural international customer for its modern naval design.
At a press conference on August 4, Defence Minister Richard Marles described it as the most significant defence acquisition since the 2023 AUKUS submarine pathway deal, underscoring the strategic importance of enhanced maritime capabilities and regional partnerships.
Why the Mogami Won: Cost, Capability, Interoperability
Advanced Armament & Design
The upgraded Mogami—also known as New FFM features a 32-cell Mk 41 VLS (double that of earlier models), SeaRAM CIWS, Type 17 anti-ship missiles, a 127 mm Mk 45 main gun, superior radar (AESA OPY-2), sonar, and automation systems. All designed to provide air defence, anti-ship, and anti-submarine warfare at scale.
Smaller Crew, Bigger Savings
With a crew requirement of just 90, the Mogami significantly cuts manpower demands—vital at a time when the Royal Australian Navy is grappling with recruitment challenges. Fewer crew reduce operating costs and logistic overhead over the ship’s expected 40-year lifespan.
Proven Production Track Record
Japanese officials pledged reliable delivery—MHI currently produces two Mogami-class vessels annually, rapidly scaling production to meet Australian slots. The first frigate is expected to enter service in 2030, five years ahead of competing Hunter-class capabilities.
Allies in Sync
The ship is highly compatible with U.S. and Australian systems. Its modular design, intelligence-sharing features, and interoperability appeal to Western Pacific allies, reinforcing Australia’s trilateral alignment with the U.S. and Japan.
Industrial Plan: Build in Japan, Then in Australia
Under SEA3000, the first three ships will be built in Japan, while the remaining eight vessels are set to be constructed at Henderson in Western Australia, under a joint venture involving Austal Defence Shipbuilding Australia. This supports ~10,000 local jobs and enables sovereign shipbuilding capability. The accelerated timeline—first delivery by 2029–2030—closes a key gap caused by delays in the Hunter-class frigate program and matches the RAN’s immediate operational needs.
Strategic Context: Indo-Pacific Balance & Industrial Diplomacy
Australia–Japan strategic relations are rapidly strengthening, with defence export cooperation serving as a new pillar. The frigate deal comes amidst AUKUS trilateral arrangements, and U.S. support was reportedly influential. For Japan, this contract represents more than revenue—it’s a signal of its post-war shift toward military alliances and export readiness, backed by government leadership.
Technical Snapshot of the Upgraded Mogami-Class
| Feature | Specification / Advantage |
|---|---|
| Looks / Stealth | RadRadar-optimized hull, integrated mast, reduced infrared cross section |
| Displacement & Speed | ~4,~4,880–5,500 tons; CODAG propulsion (MT30 + MAN diesel engines); >30 knots top speed |
| Crew & Automation | ~90 crew thanks to advanced Combat Information Centre and automation systems |
| ~4,880–5,500 tonnes; CODAG propulsion (MT30 + MAN diesel engines); >30 knots top speed | Endurance & Range |
| Interoperability | ComCompatible with Aegis standards, US & Australian weapon systems and data-sharing platforms |
What This Means for the Royal Australian Navy
- Rapid expansion from 9 aging Anzac-class ships to 11 new, modern vessels
- Enhanced air defence and anti-submarine warfare before Hunter-class vessels arrive
- Significant cost savings in manpower and lifecycle maintenance
- Increased regional resilience and deterrent capability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Australia’s selection of the upgraded Japanese Mogami-class frigate marks a strategic investment in naval capability and diplomatic alignment. With superior technology, cost-efficiency, and interoperability, the frigate deal elevates Australian maritime power while forging a deepened defence alliance with Japan. As the first three ships take shape in Japan and the rest in Western Australia, this programme signals a watershed moment in both nations’ defence-industrial cooperation and their vision for a futuristic Indo-Pacific security architecture.
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