Japan has secured its first major arms export with the selection of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ (MHI) upgraded Mogami-class frigate for Australia’s future fleet. 

Valued at up to $6.5 billion, the contract includes 11 general-purpose warships to replace the Royal Australian Navy’s aging ANZAC-class frigates.

The upgraded 4,800-ton Mogami-class frigate has a range of up to 10,000 nautical miles. It is armed with a 32-cell Vertical Launch System and fitted with both surface-to-air and anti-ship missiles.

MHI’s design was selected over the MEKO A200 frigate proposed by German defense contractor Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS).

“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 (ADF),” Australia’s Department of Defence said in a news release.

“The government acknowledges the competitive, high-quality proposal submitted by [TKMS] and thank them for their commitment and professionalism throughout this procurement process,” it added. 

Japanese Defence Minister Gen Nakatani welcomed the decision, calling it a significant step forward in defense cooperation between Japan and Australia. 

Speaking at a regular press conference on Tuesday, Nakatani said the frigate’s design quality was a key factor in Australia’s decision.

“They are truly state-of-the-art warships that bring together the outstanding technological capabilities of Japan’s defense industry,” he said. “Japan’s production capacity for naval vessels, and our long history of continuous production … has been a major factor [in the selection].”

According to Australia’s Department of Defence, the first vessel is scheduled for delivery in 2029, with entry into service expected in 2030.