Australia is set to enhance its naval capabilities with the purchase of 11 Mogami-class frigates from Japan’s Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, in a $6 billion deal over the next decade. This agreement is one of Japan’s largest defense exports since World War II.
The new stealth frigates will replace the aging Anzac-class vessels, with the first ship expected to be in service by 2030. The procurement is part of a broader effort to expand Australia’s warship fleet from 11 to 26 and strengthen long-range maritime firepower amid growing tensions with China.
This move also deepens defense ties between Japan and Australia, both members of the “Quad” alliance with the US and India. Japan, now easing its arms export restrictions, is increasingly working with US allies across the Asia-Pacific.
Three frigates will be built overseas, while the rest will be constructed in Western Australia. Meanwhile, under the AUKUS pact, Australia is also pursuing nuclear-powered submarines, with projected costs of up to $235 billion over 30 years. Defense spending is set to rise to 2.4% of GDP, amid scrutiny over cost overruns and project delays.
