Australia selects Japan’s upgraded Mogami-class frigate for 11-ship plan

In April 2026, Japan and Australia signed a contract for three frigates based on an upgraded version of Japan’s Mogami-class design.

Australia plans to acquire 11 ships over 10 years, in a programme worth up to about 2.2 trillion yen.

The choice was notable because Japan had never transferred a warship overseas and faced competition from companies in Germany, South Korea and Spain.

One advantage was a crew of about 90 people, fewer than the crews cited for rival designs, as navies struggle to recruit enough personnel.

The ship also has a protected control room that can steer it if the bridge is evacuated, and an automated firefighting system described as a world first.

Australia is set to receive the first three ships built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in Japan, with delivery of the first planned by December 2029.

Later ships are planned for construction in Australia, making the deal a major defence-equipment export project for Japan.