Japan showcases MSDF frigate in Australia amid bid to win contract
Japan's latest Maritime Self-Defense Force frigate made a port call in Darwin, northern Australia, on Thursday for training, as Japan competes with Germany for a contract to build Australia's new-generation fleet.
Showcasing the Mogami-class multi-mission frigate Yahagi to the media on Friday, MSDF officials highlighted its advanced stealth features and ability to operate with a smaller crew than the German vessels.
The MSDF hosted an evening reception for Royal Australian Navy officials on board the ship the same day.
In November last year, the Australian government shortlisted the Mogami-class frigate and Germany's MEKO A200 frigate as candidates to replace its navy's Anzac-class frigates in a program worth up to AU$10 billion ($6.5 billion) over the next decade.
From an operational standpoint, there is a degree of support in Australia for Germany's proposed frigates, which offer compatibility with its current fleet. Meanwhile, Japan is aiming to ease concerns by allowing officials to experience the user-friendliness of its frigate.
"With a smaller crew, it is easier to keep track of personnel. I believe this is the optimal size," Yahagi's captain, Masayoshi Tamura, said.
Frigates produced by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd. can be operated by a crew of around 90, half as many as similar vessels.
The Australian government is planning the largest expansion of its navy's combatant fleet since World War II amid China's growing military presence in the Indo-Pacific region. It is expected to choose either Japan or Germany as its partner for the joint development of new frigates by the end of the year.
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