Australia opts for Japanese frigate in $6.5bln deal
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Australia is set to acquire upgraded Mogami-class frigates from Japan under a $6.5 billion defense program, with deliveries starting in 2029.
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A Japanese Mogami-class frigate sailing into Sasebo Port, Sasebo, Japan, April 28, 2022 (Wikimedia Commons)
Australia revealed on Tuesday its decision to choose the upgraded Japanese Mogami-class frigate for the Royal Australian Navy, as part of its AU$10 billion ($6.5 billion) program.
Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Richard Marles stated that the next phase of the process will now proceed with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, with the goal of finalizing binding commercial agreements with both the company and the Japanese government by 2026.
"Following a rigorous and competitive tender process, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ Mogami-class frigate was assessed as best able to quickly meet the capability requirements and strategic needs of the Australian Defense Force (ADF)," the deputy prime minister stated.
Three frigates will be constructed in Japan, with the first vessel expected to be delivered in 2029 and enter service by 2030, while the remaining eight ships will be built domestically in Australia.
Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba expressed approval for the Australian government's decision, stating that Canberra had identified the upgraded Japanese Mogami-class frigate as the preferred choice for the Royal Australian Navy’s future general-purpose frigates.
"We welcome the Australian Government’s decision. Going forward, we will work together, across both government and industry—to move toward the conclusion of the contract," Ishiba wrote on X.
