Japan has awarded Austrian firm Palfinger Marine a contract to supply stern launch and recovery systems (Stern-LARS) for its next-generation FFM-class multirole frigates.
The deal covers updated slipway technology for the first five frigates, scheduled to be built between 2027 and 2036 by Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.
Palfinger’s systems are designed to safely deploy and recover small boats and unmanned surface vehicles, reducing risks by eliminating the need for lifting gear and manual handling. The company said the equipment allows single-operator use and faster turnaround.
The Salzburg-based manufacturer previously provided similar systems for all 12 Mogami-class frigates, also built by Mitsubishi.
“We at Palfinger are proud to have been selected once again as the supplier of our slipway systems for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s future multirole frigates,” said Torstein Svane, global key account manager at Palfinger Marine.
“Being chosen for the Stern-LARS solution demonstrates that Palfinger has the engineering capabilities and project execution power necessary to take on demanding projects.”
New Japanese Frigates
The new FFM-class, also called the “shingata” vessels, will build on Japan’s existing Mogami-class design, featuring a hull 10 meters (33 feet) longer and 1 meter (3 feet) wider.
The modifications are intended to increase capacity for expanded missions, including the growing use of unmanned platforms.
Tokyo’s Mogami-class vessels entered service in 2022 and were designed for anti-air, anti-surface, and anti-submarine warfare, as well as mine countermeasures.
Mitsubishi recently launched the 11th ship in the series for the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force.
