Japan wins ANZAC-class frigate replacement bid

The Japanese Mogami-class frigate has been selected as the preferred platform for the Royal Australian Navy’s future fleet of general purpose frigates.

CAPTION: An artists’ impression of Australia’s future ANZAC-class replacement, the upgraded Mogami-class frigate by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries of Japan. Image supplied.

Following a rigorous and competitive tender process, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ Mogami-class frigate was assessed as best able to quickly meet the capability requirements and strategic needs of the Australian Defence Force.

The upgraded Mogami-class frigate boasts a range of up to 10,000 nautical miles, a 32 Cell Vertical Launch System, and is fitted with surface-to-air missiles and anti-ship missiles.

The government acknowledged the competitive, high-quality proposal submitted by Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems, and thanked them for their commitment and professionalism throughout the procurement process.

Defence will now proceed with the next stage of the procurement process with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, with the aim to enter early into binding, commercial contracts with the company and the government of Japan next year.

The first three general purpose frigates will be built in Japan, with the first scheduled to be delivered to Australia in 2029 and operational in 2030.

Successful consolidation of the Henderson precinct in Western Australia will enable the remainder of the fleet to be constructed locally.

Australia’s new general purpose frigates will replace the Anzac-class frigates and will be equipped for undersea warfare and air defence.

Alongside the Hunter-class frigates and the upgraded Hobart-class destroyers and advanced missile investments, the general purpose frigates will be an essential part of the government’s plan to more than double the size of Navy’s surface combatant fleet.

Minister for Defence Industry Pat Conroy said Australia was taking another step towards delivering a much larger and more lethal Navy, with stealth frigates that will reassure our allies and deter our adversaries.

“The upgraded Mogami‑class frigate is the best option for our Navy, boosting its capability to put to sea,” Mr Conroy said.

“It will take our general purpose frigates from being able to fire 32 air-defence missiles to 128 missiles, giving our sailors the cutting‑edge weapons and combat systems they need to prevail in an increasingly complex environment.”

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