Australia has selected Japan's Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to supply 11 advanced Mogami-class frigates as part of a significant naval upgrade program, marking Japan’s biggest post-World War II foreign defense contract. This deal, valued at approximately AUD 10 billion (around USD 6.5 billion), beats out Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems in a competitive tender process.
The Australian Defence Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, Richard Marles, described the agreement as a milestone, highlighting the strong strategic alignment and growing defense cooperation between Australia and Japan. The Mogami-class frigates offer superior capabilities, including longer-range missile firing, advanced radar and sensors, and expanded interoperability with other Australian defense assets.
The first three frigates will be built in Japan, with subsequent ships constructed domestically at Western Australia’s Henderson shipyard, reinforcing Australia’s continuous naval shipbuilding and skilled job creation.
Scheduled for delivery beginning in 2029 with operational service expected by 2030, these new frigates will replace the aging ANZAC-class ships and bolster Australia’s maritime security amid increasing regional challenges, especially concerning strategic trade routes and geopolitical tensions in the Indo-Pacific.
This acquisition complements Australia's broader defense modernization efforts, including the procurement of nuclear-powered submarines and enhanced missile systems.
Keywords: Australia Japan warship deal 2025, Mogami-class frigates, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Australian Navy upgrade, Indo-Pacific defense cooperation.
This report is based on official statements from the Australian Government and multiple news sources as of August 5, 2025.Australia to Buy 11 Advanced Mogami-Class Warships from Japan in Historic Defense Deal
Australia has awarded a multibillion-dollar contract to Japan’s Mitsubishi Heavy Industries to supply 11 advanced Mogami-class frigates, marking Japan’s largest post-World War II export defense deal. The agreement, valued at around AUD 10 billion (approximately USD 6.5 billion), surpasses Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems in a competitive tender.
Announced on August 5, 2025, the deal reflects deepening strategic cooperation between Australia and Japan. Defence Minister Richard Marles described it as a significant moment in bilateral relations and a key step towards modernizing Australia’s navy.
The Mogami-class frigates, offering enhanced capabilities such as longer missile ranges, upgraded radar and sensors, and increased interoperability with Australian defense systems, will replace the aging ANZAC-class frigates. The first three ships will be constructed in Japan, with the remainder built in Western Australia, supporting local shipbuilding industries and creating thousands of skilled jobs.
Delivery of the first frigate is expected in 2029, with operational service to commence by 2030, reinforcing Australia’s ability to safeguard maritime trade routes and respond to regional security challenges, including rising tensions in the Indo-Pacific.
This procurement aligns with Australia’s broader defense initiatives, including acquiring nuclear-powered submarines and expanding missile defense capabilities, positioning the country to meet evolving strategic demands.
READ ALSO: Tech Industry Insiders Share Top Startup IPO Picks Following Figma’s Blockbuster Debut