Arab News Japan

TOKYO: Australia is to acquire Japanese-built frigates for its navy and aims to conclude a contract with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries and others within the year, according to a report in the Nikkei newspaper. If it happens, it will be Japan’s first export of a warship.

A senior Australian official has reportedly informed Japanese government sources of the plans. If the deal goes through, it will mark Japan’s second export of a complete defense equipment package, following the export of air defense and control radar to the Philippines.

Australia confirmed its intention to adopt Japan’s proposal at an Australian National Security Committee meeting on Monday. Negotiations will continue with Mitsubishi Heavy, which will build the vessel, regarding the final price and other details.

Australia was deciding between an improved version of Japan’s Mogami-class frigate, built by Mitsubishi Heavy and used by the Japanese Maritime Self-Defense Force, and Germany’s MEKO A-200, built by Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems.

The Japanese proposal had weaknesses, including the country’s inexperience exporting warships and its price being more than 20 percent higher than the German vessel’s, Australian media report. But Tokyo sold Australia on its ship’s strengths, including stealth capabilities, and its ability to be operated by a relatively small crew of around 90 personnel.

Japan argued that the personnel costs required for maintaining and operating the ship would be 30 percent less over the vessel’s service life.

Canberra placed a high priority on rapid delivery, and Tokyo said it has the capacity to build two ships per year.

Sailing the same frigates will allow the two countries to use each other’s dry docks and other facilities, increasing operational flexibility.