A major defense deal cements Australia and Japan’s strategic alliance, countering growing regional threats.

Story Highlights

• Australia to purchase 11 Mogami-class frigates from Japan by 2030.
• This marks Japan’s largest defense export since WWII.
• The deal strengthens Australia-Japan defense ties amid regional tensions.
• Japan’s defense industry gains significant export experience.
• First frigate expected to be operational in Australia by 2030.

Australia’s Strategic Naval Upgrade

On August 5, 2025, Australia announced a landmark $6.5 billion deal to acquire 11 advanced Mogami-class stealth frigates from Japan’s Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI). This agreement, marking Japan’s largest defense export since World War II, is pivotal for Australia’s strategy to modernize its naval fleet and address escalating regional security challenges, particularly from China. The decision underscores the urgency and political will driving Australia’s defense procurement.

Australia to upgrade its navy with 11 Mogami-class frigates from Japanhttps://t.co/2YItx0rMlu pic.twitter.com/tnC2KOljJL

— AFP News Agency (@AFP) August 5, 2025

The first three frigates will be constructed in Japan, while the remaining eight will be built in Western Australia. This strategic move not only boosts Australia’s maritime capabilities but also fosters local shipbuilding and job creation. The cooperation reflects a broader trend of strengthening defense ties among Indo-Pacific democracies in response to China’s assertive military expansion.

Regional Security and Strategic Implications

Australia’s decision is a direct response to China’s increasing naval presence and territorial claims in the Indo-Pacific region. The upgraded Mogami-class frigates will significantly enhance the Royal Australian Navy’s (RAN) capabilities, ensuring secure maritime trade routes and bolstering regional deterrence. This collaboration aligns with the trilateral AUKUS security pact, reinforcing the strategic partnership among Australia, Japan, and the United States.

Japan’s shift from a pacifist defense policy to active military exports, enabled by a 2014 policy change, is a clear signal of its intent to revitalize its defense sector and deepen regional security partnerships. The deal sets a precedent for future Japanese defense exports, reshaping regional arms markets and encouraging technology sharing among Indo-Pacific democracies.

Watch: Japanese Mogami-Class Frigate Explained

Economic and Industrial Impact

The economic benefits of this defense deal are substantial for both countries. It provides a significant boost to Japan’s defense industry, showcasing MHI’s advanced naval technology on an international stage. For Australia, the local construction of frigates supports the domestic defense industry, creating jobs and fostering skills development. The accelerated procurement timeline reflects the deal’s strategic importance and the mutual interests of both nations.

While the first frigates are set for delivery by 2029, with operational status expected by 2030, the agreement ensures a rapid modernization of Australia’s naval forces. This move not only strengthens Australia’s defense posture but also signals a proactive approach to regional security dynamics, setting the stage for future defense industrial cooperation and potentially prompting other regional powers to pursue similar upgrades or partnerships.

Sources:

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries official press release
Stars and Stripes reporting
Australian Defence Department media release