Japanese navy ship arrives in Australia, seeking potential defense contract with Tokyo
AUSSIE-JAPANESE NAVAL DANCENewcastle, Australia — Japan's next-gen warship, the sleek Mogami-class stealth frigate, at present graces Darwin's shores. This strategic move showcases Japan's maritime might, aiming to secure a whopping $6.5 billion contract to arm Australia's Royal Australian Navy (RAN) with the nation's next-gen general-purpose frigates.
The JS Yahagi has docked in Darwin, under the watchful eyes of Australia's Northern Territory. The scene could be a symbolic gesture of deepening defense ties and flaunting Japanese naval technology. Japan's bid, fronted by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, is one of two vying for the RAN's SEA 3000 frigate project—competing against Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems' MEKO A-200 from Germany.
The Australian government set its sights on a preferred design this year, with hopes of beginning construction on eleven new vessels in 2026. Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Richard Marles hinted at a swift decision, stating their intention to make a decision by the year's end.
Defense Industry's Homegrown Boost
In an effort to beef up its defenses, Japan seeks to fortify its domestic defense industry. The Mogami-class is part of Japan's strategy to collaborate on joint development projects, including a next-gen fighter jet with Britain and Italy, and international sales like the stealthy Mogami-class warships.
The Japanese government has promised to prioritize the RAN's order over its own naval procurement. The Mogami-class boasts advanced combat systems, anti-submarine and anti-air warfare capabilities, and mine countermeasure operations—all operated by a lean crew of around 90, addressing recruitment challenges in the Australian Navy.
The ship's commanding officer, Masayoshi Tamura, shared that the ship's smaller crew was intentionally designed to be stealthier and require fewer personnel.
Cozying up to Canberra
The JS Yahagi's presence in Darwin isn't just a friendly visit. It serves as a symbol of deepening strategic cooperation between Canberra and Tokyo, both emphasizing the importance of maritime safety and secure sea lanes. The frigate's arrival also underlines Japan's growing role in regional security and its desire to be a closer ally to countries like Australia.
In September 2024, Australia and Japan agreed to escalate joint military training exercises in response to concerns about Chinese incursions into Japanese airspace and territorial waters. A month later, defense ministers from Australia, Japan, and the US held talks in Darwin to reiterate their commitment to bolstering security ties and coordinating joint military operations in northern Australia. Japanese marine units have also become part of annual training rotations for US Marines in Darwin.
As the warship sends waves from Australia's coastline, it's clear that the dance between Canberra and Tokyo continues to unfold. The eyes of the world gaze on the Pacific, anticipating the latest moves in this strategic chess game.
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Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo contributed.
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