MHI Wins 3-Ship Order for Japan’s Upgraded Mogami Frigates

Japan’s Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has been awarded a 128.6 billion yen contract by ATLA to build three upgraded Mogami-class multi-mission frigates (FFMs), units 3–5, as part of Japan’s plan to modernize its surface fleet. The upgraded ships are larger (about 4,800 tons standard, 6,200 tons full load) with 32 Mk 41 VLS cells, enhanced radar and sonar, and improved air-defense and anti-surface capabilities (NSAM, Type 23 A-SAM, Type 17 SSM). MHI is the prime contractor with JMU as a subcontractor; hull construction for these units is separated from onboard systems costs, a distinction that explains a market-focused price versus the overall budget. The program supports export potential (notably Australia) and strengthens Japan’s naval-industrial base while continuing the move toward a next-generation JMSDF fleet.