Japan has reached a significant milestone in its defense industry by securing its first warship export contract, with Australia announcing the purchase of 11 Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ Mogami-Class frigates. This deal, valued at $6.5 billion, is the largest defense agreement between Japan and Australia, with three ships to be built in Japan and the remainder in Western Australia.
The Mogami-Class frigates will replace Australia’s aging Anzac-class fleet. Japan’s arms export endeavors have emerged after lifting a decades-long ban on weapon sales, initially imposed post-World War II. The ban was partially lifted in 2014 to facilitate limited exports, and in 2023, Japan revised policies to allow exports of lethal weapons to allied countries amid regional security concerns from North Korea and China.
The 427-foot Mogami frigate, operational since 2022, features advanced automation allowing it to operate with a reduced crew of around 90, compared to 200 for similar vessels. It boasts sophisticated weaponry including anti-ship missile launchers and a vertical launch system. Japan and Australia’s military collaboration has strengthened in response to regional dynamics, marking a key step in Japan’s defense manufacturing and export ambitions.
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