Why Japan’s Cutting-Edge Mogami Frigate is Set to Be Australia’s Next Warship Triumph

Australia has chosen the upgraded version of Japan’s Mogami class frigate as its next major surface warship. This selection marks a significant milestone in military partnerships, as it’s Japan’s largest arms sale since World War II.

On August 5, Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles announced the decision to replace its aging Anzac class frigates. This follows a competitive search initiated in February 2024, part of the SEA 3000 program. Reports suggest that bids were kept under tight wraps to maintain fairness.

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries will build the first three frigates in Japan, with the remaining eight constructed in Australia. The total cost of the deal is around 10 billion Australian dollars, which is about 6.5 billion US dollars.

Four designs were initially considered for SEA 3000, including the updated Mogami and options from Germany and South Korea. By late last year, only the Mogami class and the South Korean Daegu class remained in the running.

The Mogami class is a modern design with stealth features and was first commissioned in 2022. These frigates are about 436 feet long and use a fuel-efficient CODAG propulsion system. They have advanced radar systems and can carry a variety of weaponry, including anti-ship missiles and a main gun.

Interestingly, the design includes a new 32-cell vertical launch system instead of the earlier plan for a 16-cell system. This will give Australia access to more advanced missiles, potentially including Tomahawk cruise missiles.

The deal strengthens defense ties between Australia and Japan, both of whom share concerns about growing Chinese influence in the region. This partnership not only enhances Australia’s naval capabilities but also places Japan in a stronger position in the global arms market. As Japan explores military exports, this agreement could reshape its defense policy moving forward.

In the context of growing regional tensions, especially in the Indo-Pacific, these developments come at a crucial time. Australia’s push for modernization aims to safeguard vital maritime trade routes and prepare for potential conflicts alongside allies like the U.S. and Japan.

In recent years, Japan has been reassessing its military policies, particularly under Article 9 of its constitution, which limits offensive actions. The sale to Australia might mark a turning point in Japan’s approach to defense exports and international military engagement.

In conclusion, this partnership has the potential to influence not just the capabilities of the Royal Australian Navy but also the balance of power in the Asia-Pacific region.

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