Japan and Australia Sign Agreement for "Joint Development" of New Type of Warship
According to a report by Reference News Network on April 20, Kyodo News reported on April 18 that Japanese Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi held talks with Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Richard Marles in Melbourne, Australia, on the 18th. The two sides confirmed that they have signed a contract for the joint development of a new type of vessel for the Australian Navy based on the enhanced performance of Japan's latest "Mogami" class destroyers. They also signed documents to jointly promote related projects. Kishi expressed a desire to elevate Japan-Australia relations to a higher level and conveyed his willingness to deepen security cooperation.
Under the current "Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology," Japan's export of weapons with lethal capabilities is restricted, but transfers are allowed for the purpose of joint development and production. According to the plan, the new type of vessel will be built first in Japan, effectively classifying it as an export of destroyers.
Japan regards Australia, which is allied with the United States, as a "quasi-allied nation" and values it as a partner in the Indo-Pacific region. Japan hopes to strengthen cooperation in defense through the joint development of the new type of vessel.
At a joint press conference after the talks, Kishi stated regarding the joint development of the new type of vessel: "This will significantly enhance interoperability between Japan and Australia and has broad significance in terms of shipbuilding, maintenance, and strengthening the foundation for repairs."
According to relevant sources, the contract was signed between the Australian government and companies such as Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, which builds the "Mogami" class destroyers. The project will construct 11 vessels, with delivery expected to begin in 2029. The first three vessels are planned to be built by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries in Japan. The Australian government announced on the 18th that it will invest up to 20 billion Australian dollars (approximately 14.3 billion US dollars) over the next 10 years.
Japan's Defense Minister Kishi Nobuo and Australia's Deputy Prime Minister Marles signed a contract in Melbourne on April 18, 2023, for the joint development of a new naval vessel based on the Mogami-class frigate. The project will involve building 11 ships, with the first three constructed in Japan, and aims to enhance defense cooperation between the two nations. Australia will invest up to 20 billion AUD over the next decade for this initiative.
- Japan and Australia signed a contract for joint development of a new naval vessel.
- The new vessel is based on the enhanced capabilities of Japan's Mogami-class frigate.
- The project will involve the construction of 11 ships, with the first three built in Japan.
- Australia plans to invest up to 20 billion AUD over the next decade for this project.
- The collaboration aims to strengthen defense cooperation between Japan and Australia.