Australia Poised to Acquire Japanese Mogami-Class Frigates

Australia is set to become the first nation to purchase Japanese-built warships since World War II, with the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) likely to acquire up to 11 enhanced Mogami-class frigates, according to Nikkei Asia. The RAN’s 2024 Surface Combatant Fleet Review highlighted the urgent need to replace the aging ANZAC-class frigates, in service since the 1990s. While the Type 26-based Hunter-class program remains the RAN’s primary focus, its delayed delivery prompted the need for a faster, Tier-2 solution to bolster fleet numbers.

The Mogami-class frigate has emerged as the frontrunner over Germany’s MEKO A-200, with Australia reportedly signaling its preference in a recent National Security Committee meeting. A final decision is expected by year-end. The first three ships will be built in Japan, with the remaining eight constructed in Western Australia. Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI), which has delivered eight Mogami-class ships to the Japanese Maritime Self-Defence Force (JMSDF) since 2019, is slated to deliver the first frigate to the RAN by late 2029, leveraging Japan’s rapid warship construction capabilities.

The Mogami FFM, a 6,200-tonne, 142-meter vessel, offers robust anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-air, and mine warfare capabilities. It features a 32-cell Mk 41 Vertical Launch System—twice that of the MEKO A-200—and a CODAG propulsion system with a Rolls-Royce MT30 gas turbine and twin diesel engines, achieving over 30 knots and long-range Pacific operations. Designed for survivability, the Mogami boasts a stealthy hull, reduced radar cross-section, and infrared suppression. Its heavily armored Combat Information Centre (CIC), located below decks, supports a compact crew of about 90, with only 10 needed for command, addressing the RAN’s recruitment challenges.

If finalized, this deal would mark Japan’s first warship export and its second major defence sale abroad, following radar systems supplied to the Philippines. Japan’s government is fully backing the project, with MHI offering intellectual property rights and long-term support for Australia’s fleet, ensuring local sustainment over a 40-year lifespan. The Mogami deal also strengthens the strategic partnership between Australia and Japan, enhancing naval deterrence and interoperability in the Indo-Pacific amid growing Chinese military influence.