Japan, Australia finalise contracts to deliver first 3 of planned frigates

Japan and Australia finalized contracts on Saturday to jointly deliver the first three of eleven frigates for the Australian navy. The ships will be based on the upgraded Japanese Mogami-class frigate design. The agreement, announced in Melbourne by the defense ministers of both countries, signifies deepening defense cooperation between Japan and Australia. This collaboration occurs amidst growing concerns about China's increasing assertiveness in the region. The deal also precedes Japan's anticipated easing of restrictions on defense equipment exports, which currently limit the export of lethal weapons except in joint development and production projects.