Australia to Bolster Navy with Advanced Japanese Frigates Amidst Rising Regional Tensions

Canberra,Australia – In a notable move to modernize its naval capabilities,Australia has announced the acquisition of Mogami-class frigates from Japan. Defense Minister Richard Marles hailed the vessels as “the best frigates for Australia,” marking a key step in replacing the nation’s aging Anzac-class fleet. The first of these next-generation warships is expected to be operational by 2030.

The frigates boast cutting-edge stealth technology and a formidable arsenal, including 32 vertical launch cells capable of deploying long-range missiles – notably, the Tomahawk cruise missile, as confirmed by Defence industry Minister Pat Conroy. This acquisition aims to transform the Royal Australian Navy into a “bigger and more lethal” force, according to Conroy.

The initial three frigates will be constructed overseas, with subsequent vessels slated for production at shipbuilding yards in Western australia, promising a boost to the local defence industry.

Aukus and the Broader Defence Strategy

This declaration comes as Australia continues to pursue the aspiring AUKUS security pact with the United States and the United Kingdom. Under AUKUS, Australia intends to acquire at least three Virginia-class nuclear-powered submarines within the next 15 years, a decision that previously led to the cancellation of a long-standing agreement with France for conventional submarines.

However, the scale of these defence projects has drawn scrutiny. The Aukus submarine program alone is projected to cost up to US$235 billion over the next three decades, sparking debate over the financial implications and strategic priorities. Australia’s history of cost overruns and shifting policies on major defence initiatives has fueled concerns that local job creation sometimes takes precedence over optimal defence outcomes.Investing in Future Security

Australia is progressively increasing its defence spending, aiming to reach 2.4% of its gross domestic product. This commitment surpasses the 2% target set by NATO allies, though it remains below the 3.5% advocated by the United States.

Evergreen Insights: The Shifting Landscape of Naval Warfare

The move towards stealth frigates and nuclear-powered submarines reflects a broader global trend in naval warfare. Modern naval strategy increasingly prioritizes:

Stealth Technology: Reducing a vessel’s radar and acoustic signature is crucial for survivability in contested waters.
Long-Range Precision Strike: The ability to launch missiles from a distance allows navies to engage targets without entering heavily defended areas.
Submarine Warfare: Nuclear-powered submarines offer extended endurance and stealth,making them vital assets for intelligence gathering and power projection.
Regional Power Dynamics: Australia’s defence investments are directly linked to growing strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly concerning China’s increasing military presence.

The Mogami-class frigates and the AUKUS submarine program represent a long-term investment in Australia’s security, designed to address evolving threats and maintain a credible defence posture in a rapidly changing world.

How does the Mogami-class design contribute to enhanced interoperability between the RAN and the JMSDF?

Mogami-Class Frigates: Australia’s New Naval Force

Overview of the Hunter-Class frigate Program & Mogami’s Role

Australia’s future naval capabilities are undergoing a important change with the Hunter-class frigate program. While often referred to as the Hunter-class,the design is heavily based on the Japanese Mogami-class frigate (30FFM). This collaboration represents a crucial step in strengthening the Australia-Japan defense partnership and modernizing the Royal Australian Navy (RAN). The program aims to replace the aging Anzac-class frigates, providing Australia with a cutting-edge, multi-mission surface combatant. Key aspects include advanced anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities, area air defense, and support for amphibious operations.

Design and Specifications of the Mogami-Class

The Mogami-class, and consequently the Hunter-class, boasts a sleek, stealthy design optimized for reduced radar cross-section. this is achieved through a combination of hull shaping and the integration of radar-absorbent materials.

Here’s a breakdown of key specifications:

Displacement: Approximately 5,500 tonnes

Length: 133 meters (436 ft)

Beam: 16.3 meters (53 ft)

Draft: 9 meters (30 ft)

Propulsion: Combined Diesel and Gas (CODAG) – GE LM2500 gas turbine and two MAN 14V28/33D diesel engines.

Speed: Over 30 knots (56 km/h; 35 mph)

Crew: Approximately 180 (including embarked forces)

combat Management System (CMS): The Australian Interface (developed by Saab Australia) will integrate all shipboard systems, providing a unified tactical picture.

Radar: CEAFAR 2 phased array radar, providing long-range surveillance and tracking capabilities.

Sonar: Advanced sonar systems for ASW,including hull-mounted and towed array sonar.

Missiles: Vertical Launch System (VLS) capable of launching a variety of missiles, including:

Standard Missile 2 (SM-2) for area air defense.

Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile (ESSM) for point defense.

Harpoon anti-ship missiles.

Guns: A 5-inch (127mm) naval gun for surface engagement.

Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW): dedicated ASW suite, including torpedoes and ASW helicopters (likely MH-60R Seahawk).

Construction and Challenges – the Osborne Naval Shipyard

The Hunter-class frigates are being constructed at the Osborne Naval shipyard in South Australia. This represents a significant investment in Australian shipbuilding infrastructure and aims to create a sovereign naval capability. However, the program has faced challenges, including:

Cost Overruns: The program has experienced substantial cost increases, prompting reviews and adjustments to the build schedule.

Schedule Delays: Delays in the delivery of key components and the complexity of the build process have impacted the program timeline.

Supply Chain Issues: Global supply chain disruptions have presented challenges in sourcing necessary materials and equipment.

Skills Shortages: A need for a highly skilled workforce to support the construction and maintenance of these complex warships.

Australia-Japan Defense Cooperation

The selection of the Mogami-class design underscores the growing defense cooperation between Australia and Japan. this collaboration offers several benefits:

Technology Transfer: Access to advanced Japanese naval technology and expertise.

Interoperability: Enhanced interoperability between the RAN and the japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).

regional Security: strengthened regional security through a shared commitment to maritime stability.

Industrial Benefits: Opportunities for Australian companies to participate in the supply chain and develop advanced manufacturing capabilities.

Future Upgrades and Potential Enhancements

The Hunter-class frigates are designed to be adaptable and capable of incorporating future upgrades. Potential enhancements include:

Directed Energy Weapons: Integration of laser weapons for defense against drones and missiles.

Hypersonic Missile Defense: Capabilities to counter hypersonic threats.

* Unmanned Systems: Deployment of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and unmanned surface vessels (USVs) for reconnaissance and surveillance