Australia and Japan Seal Largest Defence Deal for Advanced Warships

Australia and Japan have signed their largest-ever defence deal for 11 advanced Mogami-class stealth frigates, valued at around AUD 10 billion ($6.5 billion). Built by Japan’s Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, these warships will replace Australia’s current Anzac-class frigates, offering greater range and missile capacity with fewer crew members. The contract marks a significant milestone in bilateral relations and Japan’s post-2014 military export efforts. Three ships will be built in Japan, with eight constructed in Australia. The deal supports Australia’s military restructuring focused on enhancing long-range strike capabilities amid regional security challenges, aiming to expand its major warship fleet from 11 to 26 within a decade.