Japan, Germany Listed as Finalists to Build New Frigates for the Royal Australian Navy

Japan and Germany have been named finalists in the competition to jointly develop new multipurpose frigates for the Australian Navy. Japan's proposal is based on the upgraded Mogami-class, or New FFM, the latest escort vessel of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).

After losing a previous submarine contract with Australia, Japan is making a determined effort to secure this opportunity through collaboration between its public and private sectors.

Japan's Solution to Workforce Shortages

On November 25, Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defense Richard Marles announced that Japan and Germany had been selected as the final contenders over South Korea and Spain.

Marles stated that the plan calls for the deployment of 11 new frigates to replace aging vessels. With a total cost of $11.1 billion AUD (about $6.6 billion USD), this initiative represents Australia's largest naval expansion since World War II.

Under the proposed framework, three of the 11 frigates will first be built in the partnering country, with the remaining ships constructed in Australia. Deliveries are expected to begin in 2029.

Japan's proposal features the JMSDF's Mogami-class FFM, developed by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries. The Mogami-class ships entered service in 2022, with six currently stationed at bases in Yokosuka, Sasebo, and Maizuru.

*Officials see off JS Mogami, the first ship of the Mogami class, as it departs at 11:48 AM on April 28, 2022, in Nagasaki City. (©Kyodo)*

Japan plans to complete a fleet of 12 frigates by 2027. These vessels have a high level of automation, requiring a crew of just 90 — half the size of traditional escort ship crews. This design aspect has reportedly garnered interest from the Australian military, which faces persistent workforce shortages.

Another key advantage of the Mogami-class is its compatibility with American weapon systems, aligning with Australia's close defense partnership with the United States.

At a press conference on November 17, Marles said that he was "very impressed" by the Mogami-class, describing it as "a very capable platform."

Germany's Price Advantage

Germany, Japan's rival for the bid, has proposed the MEKO A200 frigate, developed by ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems. This upgraded version of the Anzac-class frigates, currently serving in the Australian Navy, is reportedly favored operationally for its continuity with existing systems.

While Japan's proposal is believed to offer superior performance, Germany is seen as having a price advantage. The Australian government is expected to announce its final decision on the joint development partner in 2025.

If Japan wins the contract, it would mark another achievement following its ongoing joint development of next-generation fighter jets with the United Kingdom and Italy.

In November, the Japanese government convened the National Security Council (NSC) to formally approve participation in the project.

Expressing his determination, Defense Minister Gen Nakatani stated, "We aim to make a strong proposal for the final selection through a united effort between the public and private sectors."

This project also represents a "rematch" for Japan. In 2016, Japan lost a bid for a submarine joint development contract with Australia despite initially being considered the frontrunner.

Japan had promoted its Soryu-class submarines, regarded as the world's top standard among conventionally powered models, but France's proposal ultimately won.

Japan's Previous Bid

In 2014, Japan adopted the Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology, ending its long-standing ban on arms exports. However, its lack of experience in promoting defense deals quickly became apparent.

Australian officials reportedly criticized Japan's efforts as "fatally lacking" in actively pitching its proposal. While the Japanese government was keen to pursue the project, concerns within the JMSDF about potential leaks of highly classified submarine information led to internal opposition.

Meanwhile, China strongly objected to closer military ties between Japan and Australia, viewing them as a challenge to its dominance in the South China Sea. At the time, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi urged Australia to "consider Japan's historical restrictions on arms exports."

The Malcolm Turnbull administration, mindful of Australia's economic dependence on China, faced considerable pressure from Beijing, which influenced its final decision.

A Bond Beyond an Alliance

Drawing on past experiences, the Japanese government plans to establish a joint public-private committee to bolster its bid for the new ship contract. This committee will include the Ministry of Defense, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, and other key stakeholders. Its objectives will include sharing technical expertise, refining crew training methods, and crafting a strategic promotion plan.

In recent years, Japan has designated Australia as a quasi-ally with a shared focus on countering China, working to strengthen defense ties.

The National Defense Strategy, introduced in 2022, underscores the importance of collaboration between Japan, the US, and Australia during crises. It outlines plans for mutual consultations and joint efforts, particularly in areas such as rear-area support and information sharing. This represents a significant step toward closer operational coordination with the Australian military during emergencies.

The joint development of the new ship is expected to further deepen defense cooperation. A Japanese government official noted, "Joint development, in some ways, creates a bond that transcends an alliance."

Securing the contract will depend on a unified approach from both the public and private sectors.