Canberra’s Naval Overhaul: Japan to Supply 11 Stealth Frigates in $6B Deal
In a historic defense partnership move, Australia has awarded Japan’s Mitsubishi Heavy Industries a $6 billion contract to supply 11 Mogami-class frigates, part of a sweeping naval upgrade aimed at countering regional threats, including China.
The stealth warships, capable of firing Tomahawk cruise missiles, will replace the Royal Australian Navy’s aging Anzac-class fleet. The first ship is expected by 2030. The initial three will be manufactured in Japan, with Western Australian shipyards producing the rest—ensuring local job creation.
Defence Minister Richard Marles emphasized the significance of the project, noting it as a critical component in expanding Australia’s fleet from 11 to 26 major warships within the next decade. Mitsubishi’s bid triumphed over Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems.
The deal is a milestone for Japan’s arms export industry, as the country continues to relax its pacifist-era restrictions and boost its global defense presence. Japan’s Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi hailed the agreement as a major stride in bilateral security cooperation, especially within the framework of the Quad alliance (Japan, Australia, US, India).
The frigate contract complements Australia’s broader defense modernization under AUKUS, through which it plans to acquire three US-built Virginia-class nuclear submarines within 15 years. The submarine program could cost up to A$235 billion, sparking domestic debate over feasibility, cost overruns, and shifting defense priorities.
Despite criticisms of previous procurement missteps and political reversals, Australia is set to increase defense spending to 2.4% of GDP—surpassing NATO’s guideline but below the US’s preferred target.
