In a groundbreaking defense development, Australia has secured a monumental $10 billion contract with Japan to build a fleet of 11 state-of-the-art frigates, marking a pivotal shift in military strategy amidst escalating tensions in the Indo-Pacific region. The decision, announced on August 5, 2025, comes as the Royal Australian Navy grapples with aging vessels and the urgent need for modernization.

The selected design, Mitsubishi Heavy Industries’ upgraded Magami class frigate, boasts advanced capabilities that significantly enhance Australia’s naval power. With 32 vertical launch system cells—four times the capacity of the existing ANZAC class—these frigates are poised to deliver superior air defense and strike capabilities. The first three vessels will be constructed in Japan, with the remaining eight to be built domestically in Australia, specifically at the Australian Marine Complex in Henderson, marking a strategic expansion of the nation’s shipbuilding industry.

The urgency of this acquisition stems from the Australian Defense Strategic Review, which highlighted delays in the delivery of the Hunter class frigates, leaving the Navy to rely on outdated ships designed for a less volatile era. Minister for Defense Industry Pat Conroy emphasized that this move is crucial for building a larger, more lethal navy that can effectively deter adversaries and reassure allies.

With construction on the first ship set to begin next year and deliveries expected between 2029 and 2035, the clock is ticking for Australia to bolster its maritime defenses. As tensions rise in the region, the Magami class frigates represent a significant leap forward in naval capabilities, ensuring that Australia remains a formidable player on the global stage. The final contract negotiations are underway, and the nation is poised for a new era of defense readiness. The stakes have never been higher, and the world will be watching closely as Australia embarks on this ambitious military endeavor.