Japan is poised to initiate formal discussions regarding the sale of its upgraded Mogami-class multi-mission stealth frigate to New Zealand. Defense leaders from both nations are anticipated to outline the proposal later this month.
Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi is scheduled to meet with New Zealand’s Defense Minister Chris Penk on the sidelines of a multinational security forum in Singapore. This meeting aims to assess the potential export of the advanced frigate design, according to reports from Kyodo News.
As New Zealand evaluates its future naval procurement options, the Mogami-class design is under consideration alongside the UK’s Type 31 Inspiration-class frigate. This decision comes at a crucial time as Wellington seeks to bolster its naval capabilities.
Additionally, Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles is expected to endorse Tokyo’s proposal during the forum. He will also engage in discussions about broader defense collaboration among Japan, New Zealand, and Australia, focusing on enhancing interoperability in response to China’s increasing maritime activities in the Indo-Pacific region. This event marks the first trilateral conversation among the defense ministers from the three countries.
The discussions come on the heels of Australia’s decision to procure 11 warships based on the Mogami-class frigate design in April.
Currently, the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force is in the process of acquiring 12 next-generation Mogami-class vessels, referred to as the FFM system. These ships will feature advanced radar, sonar, and capabilities usually reserved for minehunters, marking a significant upgrade in operational capabilities.
Each upgraded frigate will measure 142 meters (466 feet) long and have a beam of 17 meters (56 feet). The design will include a 32-cell Mark 41 vertical launch system, a marked enhancement from the 16 cells available in earlier models, allowing for improved lethality through air defense and anti-ship missile capabilities, as well as torpedoes and naval artillery.
The FFM vessels will utilize a combined diesel and gas propulsion system found in the standard Mogami class and will have the capacity to transport up to 90 personnel and one patrol helicopter. The first two FFMs are expected to enter service in 2028, with the complete fleet projected for completion by 2032, signaling Japan’s commitment to advancing its naval defense strategy.
