Australia and Japan have formally signed contracts to launch a landmark A$10 billion (£5.6 billion) warship agreement, marking Tokyo’s most significant military export since it lifted its longstanding defence export ban in 2014. Defence ministers Richard Marles and Shinjiro Koizumi signed a memorandum on Saturday reaffirming both nations’ commitment to delivering the fleet, cementing a deal first struck in August.
The agreement underscores Japan’s steady shift away from its post-war pacifist stance, as it deepens security partnerships beyond its alliance with the United States in response to China’s growing military influence in the Indo-Pacific. Under the deal, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries will supply the Royal Australian Navy with three upgraded Mogami-class multi-role frigates, to be built in Japan from 2029.
A further eight vessels will be constructed in Australia, signalling a long-term industrial collaboration between the two countries. The initial contracts cover the first three ships, with construction set to transition to the Henderson shipyard near Perth in Western Australia for the remaining fleet.
In a statement, Japan’s Defence Ministry said both ministers welcomed the conclusion of the contracts and reaffirmed their intention to strengthen bilateral defence ties. The frigates, designed for anti-submarine warfare, surface strike missions and air defence, are expected to play a critical role in safeguarding Australia’s maritime trade routes and northern approaches across the Indian and Pacific Oceans, where strategic competition is intensifying.
The deal represents a major step in reshaping regional defence dynamics, as Canberra and Tokyo draw closer in the face of shifting security challenges.