Tokyo: The agreement, formalised during a signing ceremony in Melbourne, will see Japan supply advanced multi-mission frigates to bolster Australia’s naval capabilities. Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles confirmed that he and his Japanese counterpart Shinjiro Koizumi signed a memorandum reaffirming both nations’ commitment to the successful delivery of the vessels.

Under the deal, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries will construct three upgraded frigates in Japan beginning in 2029, while an additional eight will be built in Australia, supporting local industry and defence manufacturing.

Japan’s Ministry of Defense highlighted the significance of the agreement, noting that both ministers welcomed the contracts and stressed the importance of deepening bilateral defence cooperation.