Japan unveils new FFM frigate with advanced anti-air warfare capabilities
A total of 22 Mogami-class frigates were planned originally, but orders are being capped at 12 with the new FFM frigate to be built instead. (Photo: Tim Fish)
Japan’s ATLA procurement and logistics organisation was present in strength at the Indo-Pacific 2023 exhibition in Sydney from 7-9 November indicating an uplift in the country’s engagement with Australia.
On the ATLA stand at Indo-Pacific 2023, Japanese naval shipbuilder Mitsubishi Heavy Industries (MHI) showcased its new FFM frigate, also known as the Future Multi-Mission Frigate – Anti-Air Warfare (FMF-AAW).
Displacing 6,200 tonnes the FFM measures 142m-long with a breadth of 17.4m, depth of 11m and 5m draft. Its main engines are in a CODAG set up that includes a gas turbine and two diesel engines providing a top speed in excess of 30kt.
MHI was selected by ATLA in August 2023 as the prime contractor for the new FFM class for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF).
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