Massive Frigate Purchase from Japan Revitalizes Australia's Warship Program Australia has finalized a landmark defense agreement with Japan to acquire three upgraded Mogami-class frigates, marking a significant shift in its naval modernization strategy. The deal, part of Project Sea 3000, was signed by the defense ministers of both nations aboard the Japanese destroyer JS Kumano in Melbourne earlier this month. This procurement represents Japan’s largest-ever defense export and underscores a deepening strategic partnership between the two countries. The frigates, built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), will be constructed in Japan with the first expected to be delivered by December 2029. An additional eight frigates will be built in Western Australia, with the entire program projected to cost up to A$20 billion (US$14.4 billion) over the next decade—double the initial estimate from two years ago. The acquisition is critical as Australia’s surface combatant fleet faces its smallest size since World War II. Currently, the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) operates just ten surface combatants, comprising three Hobart-class destroyers and seven Anzac-class frigates. The upgraded Mogami-class vessels will replace the Anzac-class ships, offering a substantial leap in capability. Rear Admiral Stephen Hughes, the RAN’s Head of Naval Capability, emphasized that the Mogami frigates will "jump a generation in technology," integrating advanced combat systems and automation. He noted that the ships will provide 300 days of operational availability annually, far exceeding the current fleet’s capacity.#japan #australia #royal_australian_navy #mitsubishi_heavy_industries #project_sea_3000
