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Australia’s purchase of Japanese frigates signals a new era for Indo-Pacific security
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The Mogami, built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), is a stealth frigate boasting both offensive and defensive capabilities.
PHOTO: AFP
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- Japan secured an A$10 billion deal to export Mogami-class advanced frigates to Australia, its first export of warships since easing post-war restrictions in 2014.
- Experts say the deal deepens strategic ties and offers Japan a chance to prove itself as a viable defence exporter, while meeting Australia's urgent need to replace its ageing frigates.
- Challenges remain, including Japan's inexperience with foreign buyers, but the successful delivery could pave the way for future deals.
AI generated
TOKYO – Japan’s landmark multibillion-dollar sale of 11 upgraded Mogami-class destroyers to the Royal Australian Navy marks a pivotal moment for the country’s burgeoning arms export industry.
Tokyo clinched the A$10 billion (S$8.4 billion) contract, announced by Canberra on Aug 5, over more seasoned competition from Germany, Spain and South Korea – all major military shipbuilders. Japan will deliver the first vessel in 2029.
