The Japanese government has confirmed its intention to potentially transfer completed components, parts, and technical information related to frigate technology to Australia, should Japan be selected to jointly develop and produce Australia’s next-generation general-purpose frigates.
The decision was reached following deliberations within Japan’s National Security Council, in accordance with the “Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology,” the Ministry of Defense announced on November 28.
The move is part of a broader program aimed at closer defense collaboration between Japan and Australia, especially within the Indo-Pacific region. In February of this year, the Australian government announced its intention to select from several candidate vessels, including the Mogami-class frigate, as part of its procurement strategy for the next-generation frigate program. Following an assessment based on information provided by Japan, the Australian government has narrowed the selection to two potential candidates, one of which is an upgraded version of Japan’s Mogami-class, designated the 06FFM, a 4,800-ton multipurpose escort vessel.
If selected, Japan and Australia will engage in joint development and production of the frigates, a program that will involve the transfer of completed systems, parts, and technological expertise from Japan to Australia.
According to Japan’s National Defense Strategy, Australia is regarded as a “special strategic partner” within the Indo-Pacific region, second only to Japan’s close cooperation with the United States. Under this strategic framework, the potential joint development and production of frigates with Australia is intended to substantially enhance interoperability between Japanese and Australian forces. It is also seen as a means of strengthening shipbuilding and maintenance infrastructure in the Indo-Pacific region, which aligns with Japan’s broader security goals.
The frigate in question, designated as the 06FFM, is an enhanced version of the Mogami-class escort ship, which includes capabilities to conduct anti-submarine warfare (ASW), anti-air warfare, anti-surface warfare, as well as mine countermeasures — previously the responsibility of specialized minesweepers. The enhanced version will feature additional long-range missile capabilities and strengthened ASW functions.
The transfer is to be governed by the “Agreement on the Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology between the Government of Japan and the Government of Australia,” which ensures that any transferred equipment or technology cannot be used for unauthorized purposes or transferred to third countries without prior Japanese approval. Given that the intended recipient of the transferred frigate technology is the Australian Department of Defense and its designated shipbuilding contractors, Japanese officials consider that proper management will be ensured.
The Ministry of Defense underscored the importance of ensuring that defense technology transferred to Australia will be managed appropriately, adding that Australia’s responsibilities include prohibiting unauthorized use and ensuring that any third-party transfers receive prior consent from Japan. The decision to authorize such a transfer will also involve a review under Japan’s Foreign Exchange and Foreign Trade Act.
The potential partnership is expected to lead to significant improvements in both countries’ naval capabilities. By sharing technology and production capabilities, the program aims to contribute to a stronger, more integrated security framework in the Indo-Pacific region, providing mutual benefits in terms of defense capabilities and economic partnership.
The Australian government is expected to continue consultations with the Japanese and other candidate countries before making its final decision on the selection of its next-generation frigate. If Japan’s proposal is selected, it could lead to greater military integration and capability sharing between the two strategic partners.
