Aug 25, 2025 17:25 (JST) – Sydney, Australia – Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles is scheduled to visit Japan in early September to examine the Mogami-class frigate of the Japan Maritime self-Defence Force (JMSDF), according to sources revealed Monday.
The visit comes after the Australian government announced on August 5th its intention to base the design of its next-generation fleet of 11 frigates on an enhanced version of the Japanese vessel. Canberra is currently engaged in price negotiations with Japan, with a formal contract anticipated next year.
The upgraded Mogami-class frigate offers operational advantages, including a reduced crew size of approximately 90 personnel – half that of a customary destroyer. Crucially, the vessel is designed to accommodate a missile system interoperable with those used by the united States military.
Minister Marles, who also serves as Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister, intends to assess the frigate’s capabilities firsthand during a tour of the JMSDF’s Yokosuka base, located in Kanagawa Prefecture, south of Tokyo. The inspection will focus on performance characteristics and overall design features.
In addition to the frigate inspection, Marles will participate in a ”two-plus-two” meeting in Tokyo involving the foreign and defense ministers of both Japan and Australia. This annual dialog alternates between the two countries in its hosting responsibilities.
[Copyright The Jiji Press, Ltd.]
