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).
The
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![Five years on: where could opportunities emerge next for AUKUS Pillar II?]()
Five years on: where could opportunities emerge next for AUKUS Pillar II?
Payload commonality, combat systems and electronic warfare are emerging as likely priorities as the trilateral partnership balances building submarines with sharing industrial ecosystems.
-
![From the Baltic to the Gulf: where USV procurement is heading next]()
From the Baltic to the Gulf: where USV procurement is heading next
Saildrone’s new Copenhagen base is one sign of a larger shift, as navies globally turn to uncrewed vessels for surveillance and mine clearance.
-
![Israeli Navy looks to expand as war reshapes future force requirements]()
Israeli Navy looks to expand as war reshapes future force requirements
Israel’s navy is preparing for a larger and more technically diverse role, but its ambitions could be impacted by supply chain restrictions, accelerating demand for domestic naval production as well as autonomous maritime capabilities.
