Japan Eyes Strategic Partnership with Bid to Build Australia’s Warships.

Japan is making its case to build Australia’s next fleet of warships, but it’s not just about expanding its defence export market. Instead, Tokyo sees this as an opportunity to deepen its strategic partnership with what it calls a “very special country.”

Last month, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) from Japan was shortlisted alongside Germany’s ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) to compete for the Royal Australian Navy’s $10 billion general-purpose frigate program.

Australia plans to replace its ageing Anzac-class ships with 11 new frigates. The first three ships will be built overseas, with the first expected in 2029, while the remaining eight will be constructed at Western Australia’s Henderson shipyard.

The competition pits Japan’s upgraded Mogami 30 FFM, which is still awaiting active service, against Germany’s Meko A-200, a design already in operation with three navies.

Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy highlighted the importance of the decision, saying, “These are two of the most advanced frigates in the world. They’re part of a plan to more than double the size of the Royal Australian Navy. Both options have pros and cons, and we’ll weigh them carefully.”

Germany is emphasizing the proven track record of its vessel, while Japan argues its design is innovative, sharing 85% of the original Mogami’s design but offering faster, stealthier, and more adaptable capabilities.

Dr. Osamu Nishiwaki, Deputy Commissioner from Japan’s Ministry of Defense, confidently stated, “We’re sure the Mogami is the best choice for Australia’s Navy. It excels in operational range, speed, and capabilities for both attack and defence.”

If selected, the Mogami would mark Japan’s first-ever sale of a warship to another country. While acknowledging their lack of experience in exporting warships, Nishiwaki stressed that Mitsubishi Heavy Industries is a global powerhouse with a strong history of international collaboration.

The race for this contract is heating up, with both countries putting forward compelling cases. As Australia weighs its options, the decision will shape not just the future of the Navy but also the nature of its partnerships in the region.