The Australian Government has opted for the upgraded Mogami-class frigate as the preferred platform for the Royal Australian Navy’s new general-purpose frigates.
Japan-based Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ (MHI) Mogami-class frigate was selected over Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems’ MEKO A-200.
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According to the Australian Department of Defence (DoD), the upgraded Mogami-class proposal aligned closely with Australia’s capability needs while also providing a cost-effective solution for taxpayers.
The Australian Defence is set to proceed to the subsequent phase of acquisition discussions with MHI and the Japanese government, with plans to finalise binding commercial contracts by 2026.
In November 2024, the government down selected the two proposals following a competitive tender process.
The upgraded Mogami-class frigate is designed with a range of up to 10,000 nautical miles (nm) and features a 32 cell vertical launch system, along with surface-to-air and anti-ship missiles.
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By GlobalDataThe stealth technology of the Mogami-class frigate has been developed based on insights from MHI’s ATD-X Shinshin stealth fighter experimental aircraft.
This technology aims to enhance the affordability, miniaturisation, automation, and multi-mission capabilities of the ship.
The Australian Government’s Independent Analysis of Navy’s Surface Combatant Fleet recommended that the initial three general purpose frigates be constructed offshore.
As such, these vessels will be built in Japan, with delivery of the first frigate expected in 2029 and operational readiness by 2030, five years ahead of the schedule set by the previous government.
The construction of subsequent frigates will take place in Western Australia at the Henderson precinct, aligning with the Albanese Government’s commitment to continuous naval shipbuilding.
In the coming 20 years, Western defence capabilities are set to receive investment worth tens of billions of dollars, which will generate approximately 10,000 high-skilled jobs with competitive salaries.
These investments are a part of the Albanese Government’s commitment to allocate A$55bn ($37.8bn) over ten years to enhance the Navy’s fleet of surface combatants.
The newly planned general purpose frigates in Australia are intended to succeed the Anzac-class frigates and will be outfitted for both undersea warfare and air defence missions.
These frigates, along with the Hunter-class frigates, the modernised Hobart-class destroyers, and advancements in missile technology, will form a crucial element of the Albanese Government’s initiative to substantially expand the Navy’s fleet of surface combatants.
MHI said it “will continue to work with the Japanese government and companies involved in frigate construction to respond to the Australian government’s selection process, and present a proactive proposal for the final selection”.
MHI Maritime Systems delivered a JS Yubetsu, a 3,900-tonne Mogami-class destroyer, to the Japanese Ministry of Defence in June 2025.
