Japan has formally approved a landmark agreement to supply Australia with the first batch of advanced stealth frigates, marking a significant step in Canberra’s military expansion aimed at boosting long-range strike capabilities and strengthening deterrence in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly amid rising tensions with China.
The deal, originally announced last year, is considered one of Japan’s largest defense export agreements since World War II. Under the arrangement, Australia will invest approximately A$10 billion (around US$6 billion) over the next decade to build a fleet of roughly 12 stealth frigates.
Japan’s Defense Minister Koizumi Shinjiro attended the official signing ceremony covering the delivery of the first three vessels, underscoring the growing defense cooperation between the two countries, reports Al-Rai daily.
Australian Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy described the agreement as the fastest peacetime naval acquisition in the country’s history, highlighting close collaboration between Japanese and Australian defense industries to deliver what he called one of the most advanced multi-role frigates globally.
Australia plans to significantly expand its naval capabilities, aiming to increase its fleet of major warships from 11 to 26 vessels over the coming decade as part of a broader strategic buildup.
