Japan, Indonesia to co-produce Mogami-class stealth frigates

In a bold move to strengthen its security alliances in East and Southeast Asia, the Japanese government has presented a proposal to co-develop a new frigate for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. [JMSDF] in collaboration with Indonesia. The move marks an important step in Japan's strategy to foster deeper military cooperation in the region.

Japan News reported on January 1, 2025 that Defense Minister General Nakatani is expected to visit Indonesia from January 5 to 8, 2025. During this visit, Nakatani will present the joint development proposal to the Indonesian Defense Minister , Sivri Syamsuddin.

The meeting aims to take advantage of the current political climate under President Prabowo Subianto, who has a history of engaging in defense negotiations with Japan during his tenure as Indonesia's defense minister.

Nakatani's visit is expected to lay the groundwork for an upcoming high-level meeting between Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and Indonesian officials later in January 2025. This planned visit could lead to a crucial summit, further strengthening the defense partnership between both countries.

The latest Japanese proposal centers on the co-development of advanced frigates tailored to JMSDF specifications. This project aligns with Indonesia's strategic interest in modernizing its naval capabilities, especially in light of its previous interest in modern naval defense systems, including submarines. The initiative reflects a pragmatic approach to advancing mutual defense interests through collaboration.

Previous negotiations under former President Joko Widodo's administration were stalled due to financial constraints linked to Indonesia's ambitious plan to move its capital to the new city of IKN. However, the current administration appears more willing to restart discussions, particularly with the renewed focus on regional security dynamics.

Japan's defense export strategy is based on the Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology, which restrict the export of fully assembled military assets. To deal with these restrictions, Japan is seeking joint development agreements as a feasible method to transfer advanced defense technologies to Indonesia.

This strategy aligns with Japan's revised 2022 national security strategy, which aims to boost defense exports through public-private partnerships.

The development of joint frigates is expected to strengthen strategic cooperation between Japan and Indonesia, particularly in maritime security. Such collaboration is crucial in a region facing growing challenges related to territorial conflicts and the need for robust maritime defense.

In March 2021, Japan offered Indonesia a deal for modernized Mogami-class frigates, valued at 300 billion yen. The current plan calls for the construction of four frigates in Japan and four more in Indonesia. This arrangement not only strengthens bilateral ties, but also supports Indonesia's ambitions to develop its national defense industry.

By advancing this joint development project, Japan and Indonesia are poised to open a new chapter in their defense relationship, contributing to greater stability and security in the region.

The Mogami-class stealth frigates represent a significant advancement in Japanese naval capabilities, designed to improve the operational flexibility and combat readiness of the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force. [JMSDF].

Developed under the 30DX program, these frigates combine stealth technology, advanced weaponry and modular design to meet a wide range of mission profiles, from anti-submarine warfare [ASW] in anti-aircraft warfare [AAW] and surface combat.

At the heart of the Mogami-class design is its stealth architecture, which minimizes the radar cross section. [RCS] and infrared signature, making ships more difficult to detect by enemy sensors. The hull and superstructure are constructed using radar-absorbing materials and angular shapes that deflect radar waves. These design choices reduce the ship's visibility on radar and improve its survivability in contested environments.

The Mogami-class frigates are equipped with an array of sophisticated sensors and systems that enhance their situational awareness and combat effectiveness. The ships are equipped with an integrated mast with a multifunction radar, the Mitsubishi Electric OPY-2 AESA [Active Electronically Scanned Array] radar, which provides 360-degree coverage and the ability to track multiple air and surface targets simultaneously.

The frigates also integrate the OQQ-25 sonar system for underwater detection, coupled with towed sonar to enhance ASW capabilities.

For offensive and defensive weaponry, the Mogami class is equipped with a variety of weapons. The main gun is a 127mm Mk 45 naval gun, suitable for engaging surface targets and providing naval fire support.

Frigates are also armed with vertical launch systems [VLS] capable of firing a range of missiles, including the Evolved Sea Sparrow missile [ESSM] for air defense and the Type 12 surface-to-ship missile for anti-ship warfare. The ships also carry torpedo tubes to launch Type 97 torpedoes, enhancing their ASW role.

The modular design of the Mogami-class frigates allows for mission-specific configurations, making them highly adaptable. The ships feature a flight deck and hangar that can accommodate an SH-60J/K Seahawk helicopter, essential for expanded anti-submarine warfare and maritime patrol operations.

The modular approach also allows for the integration of unmanned systems, such as unmanned aerial vehicles. [UAVs] and unmanned surface vehicles [USVs]to extend the operational range and capabilities of the frigates.

In terms of size and dimensions, the Mogami-class frigates are approximately 133 meters long, with a width of 16 meters and a draft of 9 meters. They have a fully loaded displacement of approximately 5,500 tonnes. These dimensions balance the need for a compact, stealthy profile with ample space for advanced systems and crew comfort.

The frigates are powered by a combined diesel and gas engine [CODAG] propulsion system, which includes a Rolls-Royce MT30 gas turbine and MAN diesel engines, offering a maximum speed of more than 30 knots and a range of approximately 6,000 nautical miles.

The crew size of the Mogami class is reduced compared to previous classes, thanks to the high degree of automation of their systems. The vessels are designed to operate with a crew of approximately 90 personnel, reducing operational costs while maintaining their efficiency and operational availability.

In summary, the Mogami-class stealth frigates are a cutting-edge addition to the JMSDF fleet, designed to meet modern maritime security challenges. Their stealth capabilities, advanced weapon systems and modular flexibility make them a formidable asset in Japan's defense strategy, capable of carrying out a wide range of missions in both peacetime and conflict scenarios.

***

Follow us anywhere, anytime. BulgariaMilitary.com has a responsive design and you can open the page from any computer, mobile device or web browser. For more recent news, follow our Google News, YouTube, Reddit, LinkedInAnd Twitter pages. Our standards: Manifesto & ethical principles.